Process-aware information systems : design, enactment and analysis

Abstract

Process-aware information systems support operational business processes by combining advances in information technology with recent insights from management science. Workflow management systems are typical examples of such systems. However, many other types of information systems are also "process aware" even if their processes are hard-coded or only used implicitly (e.g., ERP systems). The shift from data orientation to process orientation has increased the importance process-aware information systems. Moreover, advanced analysis techniques ranging from simulation and verification to process mining and activity monitoring allow for systems that support process improvement in various ways. This article provides an overview of process-aware information systems and also relates these to business process management, workflow management, process analysis techniques, and process flexibility