What is a Process? Here are the Four Key Attributes of a Process…

Definition: What is a Process?

A series of actions or steps taken in order to achieve a particular end result.

The next question that comes up is, what are some of key attributes of a Process. 

So, here are four key aspects of a process: 

1. Clear definition of tasks (i.e. performed actions)
2. Detailed sequence of how these tasks take place, i.e. in what order
3. Identification of all the resources that perform these tasks/actions (these could be people or technology-applications)
4. And finally, the Business Objectives which we are looking to achieve by conducting and completing that process.

​At the very minimum, an individual process should show WHO is doing WHAT and in WHICH sequence to accomplish a particular aim or goal- which is the objective of the process.

If we need to make a decision which determined further course of action, then it needs to be included within the process. Any reasoning for choosing a particular action-path should be indicated as reference details within the Process documentation.
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Also, it is important that we “normalize” Processes that are too complex, so that they are represented in a simplified, easy to understand manner. This will help in properly adopting the documented processes; as not all action-players are going to be comfortable with long-winded and complex process maps!! 

​More on normalization in another post…

About the author:

​Sandhya Bhat MSc, CSSMBB, CSSE has developed several new (under patent filing) and enhanced existing strategic methodologies to improve technology and human capital utilization, produce greater ROI on investments and streamline service delivery. She is an acclaimed author, speaker, a sought after thought leader and an avid world traveler.

​#processarchitecture #processmapping #processdocumentation #businessprocessimprovement #BPI #BPR #BusinessProcessReengineering #normalization #decisionpoints