Integrated Enterprise Modeling - Integrated Enterprise Modeling Topics - Process Modeling

Process Modeling

The structuring of the enterprise processes in Integrated Enterprise Modeling (IEM) is reached by its hierarchical subdivision with the help of the decomposition. Decomposition means the reduction of a system in a partial system which respectively contains components which are in a logical cohesion. The process modeling is a partitioning of processes into its threads. Every thread describes a task completed into itself. The decomposition of single processes can be carried out long enough until the threads are manageable, i.e. appropriately small. They may turn out also not too rudimentary because a high number of detailed processes increases the complexity of a business process model. A process modeling person therefore have to find a balance between the effort complexity degree of the model and possible detailed description of the enterprise processes. A model depth generally recommends itself with at most three to four decomposition levels (model levels).

On a model level business process flows are represented with the aid of illustrated combination elements. There are these five basic types of combinations between the activities:

• Sequential orde: At a sequential order the activities are executed after each other.
• Parallel branching: A parallel branching means that all parallel branched activities to be executed have to be completed before the following activity can be started with. It is not necessary that the parallel activities are executed at the same time. They can be deferredly carried out, too.
• Case distinction: Decision either or. The case distinction is a branching in alternative processes depending on definition of the subsequent conditions.
• Uniting: The end of a parallel as the case may be alternative execution or also an integration of process chains is indicated by the uniting.
• Loop: A repatriation (loop, cycle) is represented by means of case distinction and uniting. The activities included in the loop are executed as long as the condition for the continuation is given.