metaprocess

A metaprocess is a higher-level process that governs, coordinates, analyzes, or adapts other processes. The prefix meta- denotes a level above the primary tasks, so a metaprocess operates at a meta level rather than performing the core work. Its focus is on design, monitoring, evaluation, and orchestration of base processes, enabling flexibility, reliability, and continuous improvement in complex systems.

In computing and information systems, metaprocesses appear in workflow orchestration, process governance, and metaprogramming. They manage configurations, oversee performance, or generate code that shapes other programs. Examples include orchestration engines that coordinate microservices, automation frameworks that adjust pipelines, and meta-modeling in model-driven engineering that governs how models translate into software artifacts.

In artificial intelligence and cognitive science, metaprocesses refer to meta-reasoning or metacognition—processes that select strategies, allocate resources, or adjust processing based on feedback. In cognitive models, metaprocesses regulate attention, planning, and control across tasks. In organizational practice, metaprocesses describe the governance of procedures themselves, such as how to design, audit, and revise workflows.

Because metaprocesses span multiple levels, they can introduce complexity and latency if not carefully designed. Effective metaprocessing relies on clear interfaces, explicit metrics, and governance to prevent circular dependencies or bottlenecks. The term is used variably across disciplines and is not tied to a single universal definition.