System centric processes using NW BPM - Process Debugging

[nageshwar_reddy]

This blog aims to introduce process debugging for PI developers who are in the process of converting ccBPM to NW BPM. This blog also aims to introduce process debugging to beginners in NW BPM. The screenshots and illustration used in this blog are from NWDS 7.31 SP04. Please note that the NWDS version and your PO version should match for smooth development experience.

If you have been working with ccBPM processes you will know that there is no option to debug and go step by step to analyze the process flow. With NW BPM, you can debug the process right from NWDS. Also, you can attach to processes running on the server and start debugging the processes. I believe, this helps developers in analyzing and quickly identifying the issues.

As this is introduction only, I have chosen a Q&A format. Additional details are clearly documented in SAP help.

What tool do i need to debug the BPM process?

NWDS(NetWeaver Developer Studio) is required to debug the process.

What role do I need to debug a process?

You should have SAP_BPM_Debug role.

On what all objcets can i place breakpoints?

Breakpoints in the process can be placed on activities, events and gateways. Breakpoints cannot be placed on artifacts, swim lanes and connections.

How do I set breakpoints?

Right click on any activity, event or gateway and select toggle break-point option. You will notice a dot next to the activity that indicates a break-point.

How do i create a debug configuration?

In process development perspective, you can click on the debug Configuration drop down button and choose Debug Configuration. In Debug Configurations, Right click on the Process and select New.

Provide Project, Process, Payload(only for new process instance) and click on Debug, you are set to start stepping through the steps.

The following screen shows that it is currently at start event

What are the other ways to start debugging a new process?

You can start process debugging multiple ways from NWDS. From process development perspective you can right click on the process and select Debug.

Process debugging can be started by clicking on Debug configuration from Process Development perspective.  Process debugging can also be started from Debug perspective.

Can I debug a process that is already running on the server?

Yes. You can attach to an already running process from NWDS and debug the process.Process Instance view provides the list of processes and process instances. You can right click and attach to the process you want to debug.

Where do i get more information on Process debugging

complete information is available at SAP Library - Debugging Processes.

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