Product-based workflow support

Despite the industrial need for the improvement of information-intensive business processes, few scientifically grounded approaches exist to support such initiatives. In this paper, we propose a new approach that builds on concepts that are part of a product-oriented view on process optimization. Essentially, this approach allows end users to flexibly decide on the best possible way to create an informational product within the limits that are imposed by regulations and logical dependencies. We argue that this provides various benefits in comparison to earlier work. To support end users in making sensible decisions, we describe two alternative approaches to provide them with recommendations to this end. We formalize these alternatives and discuss their relative strengths and weaknesses. The feasibility of the overall approach, which we refer to as Product-Based Workflow Support, is demonstrated by a workflow system that is realized using ProM and DECLARE.

Research Highlights► Product-Based Workflow Support is a new and scientifically grounded approach that provides flexible and dynamic support for workflow processes. ► Product-Based Workflow Support takes a product-oriented view on process optimization using the notion of the product Product Data Model. ► The feasibility of Product-Based Workflow Support is demonstrated by a workflow system that is realized using ProM and DECLARE. ► To support end-users in making decisions for executing the workflow process, the system provides them with recommendations for the best step to be taken next.