Business Process Models Revised: Challenging the Physical Metaphor

Abstract

Present business process concepts and modelling techniques have shown severe shortcomings in handling such processes as order processes, development processes, control processes and most types of computerised business processes. In this chapter the author claims that behind today’s process models there are implicit concepts inherited from the physical world view. This heritage prevents us from creating models supporting us to fully utilise the potentials of the virtual (digital, electronic and computerised) world. The conclusion is that the present ways of modelling business processes will have to be radically changed if we really want to realise the potentials of the present development of information technology.