This book covers the whole spectrum of modeling goals to achieve optimal quality in the process model developed. It focuses on how to balance quality considerations across all semiotic levels when models are used for different purposes, and is based on SEQUAL, a framework for understanding the quality of models and modeling languages, which can take into account all main aspects relating to the quality of models. Chapter 1 focuses on the theoretical foundations, introducing readers to the topics of business processes and business process modeling, as well as the most important concept underlying the modeling of business processes. In turn, Chapter 2 addresses the quality of models in general and business process models in particular. Chapter 3 contains a specialization of SEQUAL for quality of business process models. In Chapter 4, examples of the practical uses of business process models are provided, together with the results of detailed case studies on how to achieve and maintain quality in business process models. Chapter 5 presents a process modeling value framework that demonstrates how to achieve more long-term and higher return on investment with regard to (business) process and enterprise models. Lastly, Chapter 6 reviews the main points of the book and discusses the potential for business process modeling in the future through its combination with other types of modeling. The book has two intended audiences. It is primarily intended for computer science, software engineering and information system students at the postgraduate level who want to know more about business process modeling and the quality of models in preparation for professional practice. The second audience consists of professionals with extensive experience in and responsibilities related to the development and evolution of process-oriented information systems and information systems methodologies in general, who need to formalize and structure their practical experience or update their knowledge as a way to improve their professional activity. The book also includes a number of real-world case studies that make it easier to grasp the main theoretical concepts, helping readers apply the approaches described.

[Special Note: If you ordered in early September, please contact www.processmodelingadvisor.com to receive your FREE final-edited copy directly from the author.] Many business process models don't meet expectations. Why? Business analysts, managers, productivity improvement specialists, and consultants who develop process models by trial and error are prone to fail. This is THE only start-to-finish how-to guide for consistently producing high-quality business models. It shows you how to: - Establish or improve your business process modeling competence using the 6-step Universal Process Modeling Procedure. - Perceive, define/normalize any business process or activity using the 4-part Universal Business Process Definition. - Never miss the 3 Basic Business Process Flow elements. - Efficiently elicit process model content using razor-sharp elicitation agendas. - Elicit and model the 10 most common logical process model refinements. - Validate any process model's quality using 5 Universal Process Model Quality Checklists. - Use any process modeling tool at-hand, whether it be white board or process modeling software. Learn more at www.ProcessModelingAdvisor.com

Constitutes the refereed post-workshop proceedings of 9 international workshops held in Milano, Italy, in conjunction with the 6th International Conference on Business Process Management, BPM 2008, in September 2008.

Advanced Topics in Database Research is a series of books in the fields of database, software engineering, and systems analysis and design. They feature the latest research ideas and topics on how to enhance current database systems, improve information storage, refine existing database models, and develop advanced applications. Advanced Topics in Database Research, Volume 4 is a part of this series. Advanced Topics in Database Research, Volume 4 is enriched with authors who have submitted their best works for inclusion in this scholarly book. Advanced Topics in Database Research, Volume 4 is a useful reference and a valuable collection for both researchers and practitioners.

This book primarily addresses Intelligent Information Systems (IIS) and the integration of artificial intelligence, intelligent systems and technologies, database technologies and information systems methodologies to create the next generation of information systems. It includes original and state-of-the-art research on theoretical and practical advances in IIS, system architectures, tools and techniques, as well as “success stories” in intelligent information systems. Intended as an interdisciplinary forum in which scientists and professionals could share their research results and report on new developments and advances in intelligent information systems, technologies and related areas – as well as their applications – , it offers a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners alike.

Business Process Change, 3rd Edition provides a balanced view of the field of business process change. Bestselling author Paul Harmon offers concepts, methods, cases for all aspects and phases of successful business process improvement. Updated and added for this edition is new material on the development of business models and business process architecture development, on integrating decision management models and business rules, on service processes and on dynamic case management, and on integrating various approaches in a broad business process management approach. New to this edition: - How to develop business models and business process architecture - How to integrate decision management models and business rules - New material on service processes and on dynamic case management - Learn to integrate various approaches in a broad business process management approach - Extensive revision and update addresses Business Process Management Systems, and the integration of process redesign and Six Sigma - Learn how all the different process elements fit together in this best first book on business process, now completely updated - Tailor the presented methodology, which is based on best practices, to your organization's specific needs - Understand the human aspects of process redesign - Benefit from all new detailed case studies showing how these methods are implemented

Business processes are among today's hottest topics in the science and practice of information systems. Business processes and workflow management systems attract a lot of attention from R&D professionals in software engineering, information systems, business-oriented computer science, and management sciences. The carefully reviewed chapters contributed to this state-of-the-art survey by internationally leading scientists consolidate work presented at various workshops on the topic organized by the editors of the book in the past few years. The book spans the whole spectrum of business process management ranging from theoretical aspects, conceptual models, and application scenarios to implementation issues. It will become a valuable source of reference and information for R&D professionals active in the fascinating interdisciplinary area of business process management and for ambitious practitioners.