Modeling IT Processes: A Case Study using Microsoft Orchestrator

The Information Technology field engages in many routine processes such as creating new users, assigning admin rights, and updating servers. Many of these processes can be automated using a choice of software programs on the market, including Microsoft Orchestrator. This software system provides a friendly graphical interface for automating, standardizing, and improving operational processes. However, a lack of conceptual representation of processes makes it more difficult for end users to understand an existing process or simulate a new one. This paper presents a way to model such processes conceptually using a proposed diagrammatic language that is based on “machines of flow things.” A case study is carried out using a real-life example from Microsoft Orchestrator to model an automated process of assigning on-demand and monitored admin rights to users on a PC. The finished model can be used for documentation, management, and control.