data

Data Store

A Data Store represents persistent data that exists beyond individual process instances. It depicts databases, file systems, or other repositories where processes read from and write to.

Category
data
BPMN Spec
Section 10.3.2
Icon Class
bpmn-icon-data-store

What is a Data Store?

A Data Store represents a persistent data repository-databases, file systems, or external data sources. Unlike Data Objects that flow through processes, Data Stores persist independently.

Visual Representation

A Data Store displays as a cylinder shape (like a database icon). This familiar symbol indicates persistent storage that exists beyond any single process instance.

Key Characteristics

  • Persistent storage: Data exists beyond individual process instances
  • Shared access: Multiple processes and instances can access the same store
  • External systems: May represent databases, CRM systems, ERP data
  • Read/write operations: Activities connect to read from or write to the store

Common Use Cases

Customer Database

Show activities reading from and writing to the central customer relationship database.

Document Repository

Visualize how documents are stored in and retrieved from a document management system.

Inventory System

Indicate that activities check and update quantities in the inventory database.

Frequently Asked Questions

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