A Fundamental Step Supporting Process Centered Management, Article Review Example

Abstract

This paper is a review of the article entitled “Business Process Simulation: A Fundamental Step Supporting Process Centered Management” by Mark Aguilar, Tankred Rautert and Alexander J.G Pater.

Business Process Simulation: A Review

The article entitled “Business Process Simulation: A Fundamental Step Supporting Process Centered Management” is an article that gives a clear definition as to what business process simulation is all about and why is it important for businesses to start taking advantage of it. This is achieved through the identification of ways in which business process simulation can be utilized such as in the field of computer/information technology industry and banking especially in the world wherein the ways in which global businesses and transactions are becoming more convenient and accessible as compared to the traditional processes of business (Parker, 1996). It is agreeable that business process simulation provides solution to an ever increasing constraints and competitive challenges in the business world such as in the communication aspect (Johnson, 2001). The main notion of business process simulation is to improve the organization’s ability to operate efficiently. Like the elucidation of the article on the concept of the simulation of core processes. This is particularly true in a business operating in various areas and geography where communication can be very hard (Porter, 1980). Take for example a banking transaction being done in one location but the records are stored miles away (Hutchins, 1992). Business process simulation allows for the availability of the information in just a second without errors. It changes a business from traditional operations of pen and paper into a more efficient and modern operations utilizing the information super highway to make exchange of details and information faster (Ould, 1995).

The article has expanded on the aforementioned aspects of business process simulation but even though the system can be utilized by a lot of different business, the focus seemed to be geared towards banking and computers. It could have included an analysis of the impact of the system to other industries that can benefit from the utilization of business process simulation.

However, it can be seen that the article is not biased with its promotion of the business process simulation by reminding the audience that the system is not a magical tool that can easily transform a company or how it can improve production and profitability (Morris & Brandon, 1993). Rather, it laid out properly the limitations of the system. It is undeniable that running a business is game of trial and error. Businessmen and management must learn and work harder to find the system that works well for its operation. Business simulation process helps with that aspect (Oakshot, 1997). But it is not the solution that will work in the absence of collaboration between key players such as the managers, customers, strategy and protocols to be followed. The article is correct in saying that although it is one tool to make the operation of a business smooth and functioning properly by providing an analysis of what needs to be done and set standards as to how a business can operate more efficiently. The system is complex and it will take a management willing to make a change and make an impact in the business (Joiner, 1994). It must be noted, though, that change is hard and some business are not ready to embrace it for a better operation. But it is almost a mandatory for all businesses with a global and national presence. Today, consumers want an easy yet effective way to do business and do it conveniently (Minoli & Minoli, 1997). The article emphasized on that need and it is an eye opener for business owners, managers and future business people, reminding them that there is always a room for improvement and that an efficient business gets more business transactions than the competitors (Hussey, 1998).

References

Hussey, D. (1998). Strategic Management. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann.

Hutchins, D. (1992). Achieve Total Quality. Cambridge, UK: Director Books.

Johnson, G. (2001). Exploring Corporate Strategy. London: Prentice Hall.

Joiner, B. (1994). Fourth generation management: The new business consciousness. New York: McGraw-Hill.

Minoli, D. & Minoli, E. (1997). Web commerce technology handbook. New York: McGraw-Hill.

Morris, D. & Brandon, J. (1993). Re-engineering your business. New York: McGraw-Hill.

Oakshot, L. (1997). Business Modelling and Simulation. London,UK: Pitman Publishing.

Ould, M. (1995). Business processes: Modelling and Analysis for re-engineering and improvement. New York: John Wiley & Sons.

Parker, M. (1996). Strategic transformation and information technology: Paradigms for performing while transforming.Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice-Hall.

Porter, M. (1980). Competitive strategy: Techniques for analyzing industries and competitors. New York: Free Press.