At least one message flow file that stores a message flow is read by a processor. The message flow stored within the at least one message flow file is parsed. The message flow is organized within a memory as a message flow database structure. Entries within the message flow database structure represent nodes, connections, and properties used by the message flow. The message flow database structure is edited in response to receipt of a structured query language (SQL) statement that specifies a change to the message flow database structure.