Forums for the Business Analyst

 
  Modern Analyst Forums  Business and Sy...  Business Proces...  Workflow documentation
Previous Previous
 
Next Next
New Post 3/19/2009 4:55 PM
User is offline KJ
243 posts
6th Level Poster


Re: Workflow documentation 

Christine,

 

This is indeed a complex question. One, you want to formulate the business process for an order-to-cash process (the industry name for it); and Two, you want to simulate how long it takes to do (execute) the process.

 

  • Lets start with 1) It now depends on the order, is it a single or multiple item order? Is it for an item we have in stock? ( I assume we selling items rather than services). Is the order for a known customer or do I have to create the customer first? etc.

 

  • This bring us to 2) how long does it take? For this task you need to simulate the process and ensure that you cover all the branches (out of stock, new customer etc).

 

Having said the above and without belabouring you with concepts of queuing theory, managing constraints (people, resources and time), simulation and linear programming, I still think your approach of using a matrix is sound. It might not have all the features of the special tools out there but it gives you some data at the “aggregate” level. For example, if you have all you tasks in Column A. The next column (say C) has the times for a “New Order”; Column D has the times for a “Repeat order” etc. Column E has the time for the “Out of Stock” etc.

 

When you summarise your columns you’ll get the “aggregated” time for New Orders, Repeat Order and Out of Stock.

 

When you summarise your rows, you’ll get the “aggregated” time for your task, such as Receive Order, Validate Order, Establish New Client, Confirm Stock availability etc.

 

For each of these tasks create an activity called Wait_Receive_Order, Wait_Validate_Order, Wait_Establish_New_Client, Wait_Confirm_Stock to determine how long an activity WAITs to be processed. One of your objectives is to have this wait “variable” is small as possible.

 

When you want to add resources and manage constraints you’ll need a tool. There are tools available for you to simulate these activities/processes. Most of the latter tools rely on BPMN to define the activities, delays and events in a process. BPMN resources and Tools see http://bpmsoftware.wordpress.com/2008/03/11/free-bpmn-and-not-only-tools/

 

Have a look at BIZAGI at www.bizagi.com and watch their demos.

 

Also cast your eye over the first part of this presentation the latter part goes crazy with technologies and stuff http://www.ibm.com/developerworks/kr/event/seminar/dwlive_soa/download/SOA_new_business.pdf.

 

All the best

K.

 

 
New Post 3/22/2009 5:23 PM
User is offline Adrian M.
765 posts
3rd Level Poster




Re: Workflow documentation 

 Guy Beauchamp wrote
 

Adrian,

Would Christine not also benefit from the Why & How Process Modelling article due to be published by Modern Analyst on March 23rd?

Guy

Yep - here it is Why & How: Business Process Modelling

- Adrian


Adrian Marchis
Business Analyst Community Blog - Post your thoughts!
 
Previous Previous
 
Next Next
  Modern Analyst Forums  Business and Sy...  Business Proces...  Workflow documentation

Community Blog - Latest Posts

Business Impact Analysis(BIA): Assessing the Potential Impact of a Cybersecurity Incident on Business Operations
In today’s highly interconnected society, businesses depend on technology even more than before. While offering opportunities for innovation and creativity, businesses are exposed to various cybersecurity threats that can disrupt operations, damage reputation, and result in substantial financial losses. It is crucial to carry out a comprehens...
In today's ever-evolving market, businesses must adapt swiftly to remain competitive and meet the needs of a fast-paced digital economy. Among the various business strategies available, digital transformation, customer-centricity, and sustainability have emerged as top priorities. Let’s explore why these strategies are critical for busine...
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is a pivotal credential for networking professionals, validating your skills in networking fundamentals, security, automation, and programmability. Preparing for the CCNA exam can be challenging, but with the right strategy, resources, and mindset, you can successfully achieve this certific...

 



Upcoming Live Webinars




 

Copyright 2006-2024 by Modern Analyst Media LLC