An Introduction to Business Process Management (BPM)

1. Design
The first step involves analyzing existing processes. At the same time, specific goals are defined that the organization aims to achieve through BPM.

2. Modeling
In the modeling phase, the company selects new processes and adapts them based on its own requirements.

3. Execution
The modeled business processes are recorded and documented. They are then implemented within a process model, published in the internal IT system, and executed.

4. Monitoring
In this phase, processes are continuously monitored and analyzed. Actual performance is compared against the modeled target specifications to identify opportunities for optimization. Only those with a deep understanding of the critical aspects of their processes can develop effective solutions and implement them efficiently.

5. Optimization
Based on the insights gained, processes are continuously improved, and target objectives are implemented. Using classic process optimization approaches such as Kaizen or Six Sigma, the focus is on continuously enhancing throughput, cost efficiency, error rates, and other key performance indicators, often through process automation or integration. 

With each process adjustment, a new design phase begins, completing the BPM lifecycle and restarting the control loop. Measuring progress and driving continuous improvement is only possible when processes pass fully through this control loop and all phases of the lifecycle are considered. 

The terms BPM and BPMN are often used interchangeably, but what do they actually mean?

BPM (Business Process Management) is the management discipline. It covers strategy, governance, roles, methods and the continuous improvement of business processes. BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation) is a standardized modeling language for describing processes in a way that both business and IT can understand.

In short: BPM is what you do, BPMN is how you visualize it. BPMN diagrams are one of the central tools used within Business Process Management to document and communicate processes in a BPM initiative.

In addition to pure process modeling, professional BPM software integrates best-of-class technologies such as Robotic Process Automation (RPA), artificial intelligence, and process mining. Process mining, in particular, forms a fundamental basis for comprehensive business process automation, which is an essential component of digital transformation. By analyzing real transaction data, process mining technologies create objective, tool-based transparency and identify automation and optimization potential at an early stage.

RPA can be used to automate workflows by having software robots take over repetitive tasks. In RPA tools, structured content can be created for this purpose and software bots can be configured to process transactions and communicate with other digital systems.

The use of these new technologies generates significant competitive advantages, including higher process speed, cost savings, improved process quality, and more effective employee utilization. However, to avoid automating processes that add little value, organizations must take a holistic view of their process landscape. Instead of deploying isolated bots, they should implement process-specific automation solutions that align with end-to-end workflows. A well-designed BPM solution provides the framework needed to enable this integrated, strategic approach.

Those who actively embrace the challenges of digital transformation and view change as an opportunity will set the course for long-term success. An innovative BPM solution provides the foundation organizations need to execute their business strategy and manage transformation effectively. Existing processes can be optimized and automated where possible, while new business models can be established holistically across cross-functional workflows.

Yet the ongoing shifts in IT landscapes and business processes continuously raise new demands on process management. Holistic change is therefore more critical than ever for companies aiming to sustainably increase efficiency, enhance quality, and achieve goal-oriented standardization.

In the long run, effective Business Process Management enables organizations to better manage growing process complexity, adapt more quickly to change, and deliver an improved customer experience through higher-quality, data-driven products and services. The ultimate benefit: standing out from the competition and securing long-term market success.