---
title: "Use Executable and Non-Executable Tasks — Spiff Arena 0.1 documentation"
description: "In SpiffWorkflow, a process model can be either Executable or Non-Executable , and the designation impacts how the workflow behaves:"
source_url: https://spiff.works/docs/spiff-arena/how_to_guides/building_diagrams/use_executable_and_nonexecutable_tasks.html
---

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# Use Executable and Non-Executable Tasks[](#use-executable-and-non-executable-tasks "Link to this heading")

In SpiffWorkflow, a process model can be either **Executable** or **Non-Executable**, and the designation impacts how the workflow behaves:

- **Executable Process**: Configured for automation and execution by the workflow engine. All tasks within the process are actionable and designed to run dynamically.
- **Non-Executable Process**: Intended for documentation or design purposes. These workflows are visual representations and cannot be executed by the workflow engine.

## Configuring Executable and Non-Executable Processes[](#configuring-executable-and-non-executable-processes "Link to this heading")

### **Non\_Executable Process**:[](#non-executable-process "Link to this heading")

1. Open the BPMN editor in SpiffWorkflow. Select the process canvas or diagram header. Navigate to the **Properties Panel** on the right side.
2. Under the **General** section, uncheck the **Executable** checkbox.

![non-executable task](../../_images/non_executable.png)

3. Save your changes. Go to the process model page and the Start Button will not appear, indicating that the process is non-executable.

![non-executable task](../../_images/non_executable1.png)

### **Executable Processes**:[](#executable-processes "Link to this heading")

1. Follow the same steps as above, but check the **Executable** checkbox.

![executable task](../../_images/executable.png)
2. Save your changes. The Start Button will now appear when the model is opened.

![executable task](../../_images/executable1.png)

## Common Scenarios[](#common-scenarios "Link to this heading")

| **Scenario** | **Executable Process** | **Non-Executable Process** |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Automated workflows (e.g., API calls) | ✅ | ❌ |
| Training or stakeholder presentation | ❌ | ✅ |
| Manual workflows | ❌ | ✅ |
| Workflow design phase | ❌ | ✅ |
| System integration | ✅ | ❌ |