The Optimizer tool is the IBM Business Process Manager tool for continuous process improvement (CPI). The Optimizer provides various analysis scenarios, ranging from simple simulations to validate your overall process modeling strategy, to advanced what-if comparative analyses.

When you run instances of a BPD with autotracking enabled, IBM Business Process Manager tracks and stores data for configured KPIs in the Performance  Data Warehouse. IBM Business Process Manager uses stored KPI data when  you run certain types of historical analyses in the Optimizer, but not all historical analyses available in the Optimizer rely on data generated and stored due to KPIs.

The Optimizer tool simulates your processes while you are developing them to  understand how well those processes might perform. The Optimizer tool runs  simulations using estimates that you provide for staffing levels, activity execution  times, and so on. Simulating your processes during development allows you to test and refine process designs before implementation. In the Optimizer tool, you  can analyze your processes after they are running for a while, using historical data stored in the Performance Data Warehouse (for example, to identify  bottlenecks and other issues through color-coded heat maps).