How to Merge Paths in BPMN with a Gateway (Visio Step by Step)
A BPMN gateway can split a process and join it back together. Learn how to merge two paths with a gateway in Visio, and why every outgoing flow of a split needs a label, with an order fulfilment example.
Step by step
- Merge paths in BPMN. A gateway splits a BPMN process into paths. But how do the paths come back together? With a second gateway. Let's draw it in Visio with the BPMN Shapes stencil.
- The start. The process starts when an order is received.
- Split gateway. Now the split. A gateway with one clear question. Is the item in stock? Connect the start to it.
- Label each path. If yes, the warehouse picks it from the shelf. Connect it, and label the flow yes. If no, purchasing orders it from the supplier. Connect it, and label this one no.
- Merge gateway. Here's the merge. Another gateway, between the two paths, with no question. It just waits for whichever path arrives. Connect the shelf path down into it. And the supplier path up into it.
- One way on. After the merge, there's only one way on. Pack the order. Connect it.
- End event. And finish with an end event. Connect the last flow.
- Done. Click away to see the split and the merge.
- The rule. So, a split gateway asks a question, and every path out gets a label. A merge gateway asks nothing, it just brings the paths back together.
