Generating process diagrams from images with AI
Use the AI-powered image-to-process feature to create BPMN process diagrams directly from visual representations such as flowcharts, whiteboard sketches, or existing process diagrams. This way, you can quickly transform visual process documentation into structured, editable workflows.
While it strives for accuracy, generative AI might produce occasional inaccuracies. Exercise caution and make sure that you review and validate the generated output with relevant stakeholders.
You can use an image to generate a process blueprint with AI in Blueworks Live. The AI analyzes visual elements, including process steps, decision points, connections, and flow directions, and converts them into BPMN notation. The result is a fully editable process blueprint that includes both a discovery map and a process diagram.
- Hand-drawn flowcharts and sketches
- Whiteboard diagrams captured with a camera or smartphone
- Screenshots of existing process diagrams from other tools
- Printed flowcharts or process documentation
- Digital drawings and illustrations
This capability enables users to quickly transform informal or existing process representations into formal BPMN diagrams in Blueworks Live. It eliminates the need to manually re-create processes that already exist in visual form, which saves time and reduces transcription errors. Teams can capture process knowledge during workshops or meetings and immediately convert it into actionable documentation.
- Speed: Convert visual process documentation into editable BPMN diagrams instantly instead of manually re-creating them.
- Better collaboration: Anyone can contribute by using familiar tools like whiteboards or sketches, without needing BPMN expertise.
- Knowledge preservation: Capture informal process documentation such as workshop outputs, whiteboard sessions, or legacy diagrams before they are lost.
- Migration support: Quickly migrate processes from other tools or formats, such as Visio or PowerPoint, without manual redrawing. You can take screenshots of existing diagrams and upload them for conversion.
- Quick prototyping: Keep momentum and engagement after meetings or collaborative workshops by sketching process ideas and converting them into editable diagrams, which you can refine and review with stakeholders.
Procedure
- In your Blueworks Live space, click
.Note: You must be an Editor to use this feature.
- In the dialog that opens, upload an image file that contains your process diagram. Supported formats include PNG and JPG/JPEG.
- Click Generate.
Your process blueprint is created based on the visual elements in your image, including the discovery map and the process diagram. The generated process is automatically tagged as AI‑generated, making it easy to identify its origin.
The model includes common BPMN elements such as activities, gateways, events, and swimlanes. If not present in the source, milestones are added based on the content of your image. Any documentation is also attached to the diagram element and visible in the Documentation tab. Properties that can be inferred from this documentation are added in the Details tab, such as cycle time or cost.
After you generate a process from an image, you can find a summary in the Blueworks Live IQ chat assistant. You can converse with the chat assistant to make changes if needed.
What to do next
After you generate a process from an image, review the diagram carefully to make sure that it accurately reflects the original visual representation. The AI does its best to interpret the image, but you might need to make adjustments for accuracy.
You can refine the generated diagram by using Blueworks Live standard modeling features or interact with the AI chat assistant to make changes.
To use Blueworks Live IQ to modify your process diagram, see Editing process diagrams with Blueworks Live IQ.