How is a 'Process Instance' different from a 'Process Model' in Appian?

The correct answer highlights that a Process Instance is a specific execution of a Process Model, which accurately captures the relationship between these two concepts within Appian.

To elaborate, a Process Model is essentially a blueprint or template that outlines the steps, flow, and structure of a business process. It defines how a process should operate, including the various tasks and decision points involved. This is where developers design the process, incorporating user interfaces, integrations, and data flow rules.

In contrast, a Process Instance is an actual occurrence of that process being executed. When a Process Model is instantiated, it results in a Process Instance, which represents a single execution of that defined process. Each time the process is triggered—whether through a user action or an automated trigger—a new Process Instance is created. This means that multiple instances of the same Process Model can run concurrently, each representing different data and context based on how they've been initiated.

Understanding this distinction helps clarify how Appian manages processes in real-world application scenarios, emphasizing that while the model outlines the structure, the instances reflect active processing of specific data.