A framework for identification, classification and IT support of semi-structured business processes

Abstract

Workflow management systems that are currently available on the market offer information technology (IT) support for well-structured, business processes the execution of which is known a priori, i.e. before enacting the processes. Empirical studies show, however, that in real life situations often arise which demand a more flexible process support. This is mainly due to the fact that not all process characteristics can be planned at build time of the workflow model. In order to deal with the aspect of flexibility of business processes, it is important to identify different process classes with the aim to define appropriate IT solutions for each of the classes. In this paper so-called semi-structured business processes are introduced for building this classification scheme and for defining appropriate IT solutions. Furthermore, a framework for classification and identification is presented. For some of the classes of semi-structured business processes, examples of suitable IT support are given. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons Ltd and Cornwallis Emmanuel Ltd.