A process pattern
describes a process-related problem that is encountered during software engineering work,
identifies the environment in which the problem has been encountered, and
suggests one or more proven solutions to the problem.
Stated in more general terms, a process pattern provides you with a template [Amb98]—a consistent method for describing problem solutions within the context of the software process.
( defined at different levels of abstraction)
Problems and solutions associated with a complete process model (e.g. prototyping).
Problems and solutions associated with a framework activity (e.g. planning) or
an action with a framework activity (e.g. project estimating).