Since the first developers began producing business applications, executives have always wanted their automated business processes to be ‘faster, cheaper and better.’ In the past, a two-year development cycle was accepted; now, the business climate no longer tolerates such a lag. Advances in software engineering including new languages, application frameworks, and mobile-enablement tools have helped to speed software development to some extent. However, disconnects and inefficiencies remain, especially in business processes that span different systems or groups.
What is missing in standard application development approaches is the ability to stitch together existing applications to create an integrated and holistic process for the business and its customers. The answer to this is Business Process Management (BPM). BPM software provides a standardized approach for evaluating existing processes, modeling how the process should be automated, creating executable software, and then monitoring the result. After evaluation, optimization takes place, making the application and associated business process more efficient. BPM offers a more efficient option than rewriting entire systems, by creating a cohesive whole integrating the applications you already have. The BPM focus is on aligning software processes with business processes.
A highly desirable aspect of BPM is the level of self-documentation. A clear understanding of the process flow, required components, alerts, operating procedures, service level agreements, etc., makes it much easier to manage the application as well as make necessary modifications. In the past, such documentation was rarely available, which caused delays in problem resolution and performance management.
The monitoring and optimization benefit cannot be overlooked. The process applications produced by BPM can be used to improve and streamline work efforts. The first concept developed to improve a workflow isn’t always the most effective. Over time, the data produced by the process will suggest ways to reengineer the way work is done, so that productivity is enhanced.
With the use of a BPM approach, standardization and reuse is more likely. As it becomes easier to integrate existing applications with one another, talented developers will be able to quickly craft efficient solutions with the results desired by the customer.
CM First, an application modernization leader, began to see the value of adding a BPM solution to their portfolio. Because it works well with model-based application frameworks such as CA Plex, the AXON IVY solution is a great value-add to the existing product line. AXON IVY’s core product, the Axon.ivy BPM Suite, provides organizations with a single, intelligent and fully integrated, working model of an organization’s business processes, business logic and activities. This model can include any assets you choose, including software models, such as CA Plex and CA 2E (Synon), packaged software (SAP, Oracle), financial models, content and data repositories and more. This means you can manage change more effectively. Since Axon.ivy BPM Suite is model-based, just like CA Plex and CA 2E, many of the concepts make intuitive sense to developers used to creating business models.
Every required component is included in the Axon.ivy BPM Suite, as noted in the figure below:
“The BPM suite of AXON IVY offers not only a visually attractive and contemporary end-user view, but also comprehensive and easily accessible functionality for the implementation of process applications. In four of the five categories AXON IVY convinced us with an above average rating and shone especially in aspects of the process execution.”
– Dr. Sebastian Adam, Fraunhofer IESE
CM First is a primary North American partner for AXON IVY, providing services and support in BPM implementation. To learn more about our complete BPM solution, visit: http://www.cmfirstgroup.com/products/axonivybpm/
If your modernization efforts aren’t achieving your goals, take a look at this compelling solution. Along with other CM First offerings, the Axon.ivy BPM Suite can give your company the agility it needs to compete successfully.
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