Enable or disable variable import

Learn how to configure Camunda Optimize to control variable import and enhance performance.

Overview

By default, Camunda Optimize imports process variables to provide deep insights into both process performance and business context. However, in high-throughput environments or data-sensitive scenarios, importing variables may impact system performance and resource usage.

Variable import affects several areas of Optimize’s operation:

• Import performance: Importing large or numerous variables can slow down data import.
• Memory usage: Variable data increases memory consumption during processing.
• Storage requirements: Imported variables contribute to overall storage demands.
• Indexing duration: Additional variable data extends indexing time.

If your organization primarily focuses on process performance metrics rather than detailed business context, disabling variable import can help improve scalability and responsiveness.

Optimize configuration

Variable import is controlled using the CAMUNDA_OPTIMIZE_ZEEBE_VARIABLE_IMPORT_ENABLED=true|false environment variable.

Configuration options

Value	Behavior	Recommended use case
true	Variables are imported and indexed (default)	Standard deployments requiring complete business context
false	Variable import is disabled	High-throughput or performance-optimized environments

note

Disabling variable import means variable-based reports and filters will no longer be available in the Optimize interface. Ensure this setting aligns with your reporting and monitoring needs before applying the configuration.

note

When re-enabled, partial or full variable import may happen depending on your cluster retention configuration.