Vlatka Hlupic

Business process modelling and analysis using discrete-event simulation

Globalisation and competitive pressure urge many organisations to radically change business processes. Although this approach can provide significant benefits such as reducing costs or improving efficiency, there are substantial risks associated with it. Using simulation for modelling and analysis of business processes can reduce that risk and increase the chance for success of business process re-engineering projects. This paper investigates the potential of simulation modelling to be used for modelling business processes and supports the case for a wider use of simulation techniques by the business community. Following a discussion on business process modelling methods and tools, the usability of simulation modelling for evaluating alternative business process strategies is investigated. Examples of simulation models representing business processes are presented and discussed.

Social enterprise and social entrepreneurship research and theory

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present a detailed analysis of the social enterprises (SE) and social entrepreneurship (SEship) literature that has been published in international journals from 1991 to 2010, determining the intellectual structure of both fields and their maturity as academic fields of study. Design/methodology/approach – Using a quantitative methodology for literature study, named bibliometric analysis, relevant papers were obtained from three important international databases, and SE and SEship journals. An initial number of 1,343 records were identified and, after applying various filters, a total of 286 papers were studied for bibliometric indicators and epistemological orientation. Findings – The study identified a significant increase in the scholarly investigation of SE and SEship in recent years, together with greater collaboration and international research. It was demonstrated that some countries are dominating the SE and SEship research area, such as the UK and the USA, whereas institutional and individual research output is spread more equally. Currently, no author or institution dominates the SE and SEship literature. The epistemological orientation suggests that the published literature is largely of a theoretical and descriptive nature in both fields, with only a small number of predictive papers. Originality/value – This paper provides important contributions. First, it presents an intellectual structure of SE and SEship as a discipline. Second, it determines the current maturity of the field based on its epistemological orientation, concluding that SE and SEship are maturing, with theory development followed by empirical testing and validation generating an increase in consensus on the boundaries of the field.

Re‐engineering manufacturing processes through simulation modelling

Previous research suggests that developing dynamic models of business processes prior to their radical change could increase the success of BPR projects. Identifies barriers encountered in existing business processes and presents an overview of business process modelling methods that can be used to identify ways of eliminating these barriers. A case study is used to demonstrate how simulation modelling can be used to effectively re‐engineer manufacturing processes. The developed model is then manipulated, with results being generated to discover the possibilities of increasing the through‐put of the system. The usability of simulation modelling for evaluating alternative business process strategies is then investigated. Guidelines for achieving more widespread use of business process simulation are then proposed.

Simulation of Business Processes

Computer-based simulation models of business processes offer a powerful mechanism for modelling organizational structures and arriving at informed recommendations for change and improvement. In this article, the authors review the current status of the business process modelling (BPM) and business process simulation (BPS) domains, discuss some pertinent issues for their successful deployment, and suggest a number of research directions for organizational modelling.

A hierarchical framework for evaluating simulation software

Abstract In simulation software selection problems, packages are evaluated either on their own merits or in comparison with other packages. In either method, a comprehensive list of criteria for evaluation of simulation software is essential for proper selection. Although various simulation software evaluation checklists do exist, there are differences in the lists provided and the terminologies used. This paper presents a hierarchical framework for simulation software evaluation consisting of seven main groups and several subgroups. An explanation for each criterion is provided and an analysis of the usability of the proposed framework is further discussed.

Integrating simulation in organizational design studies

Designing organizational structures can be a complex and demanding task, one that can be greatly assisted by the use of carefully developed models. In this paper we investigate the efficacy of business process simulation (BPS) in the context of the process paradigm of organizational design. The problem and its characteristics are presented, and BPS-specific issues and modeling considerations are discussed. Combined with generic simulation and change management theories, these issues are used to drive the development of a methodology for integrating simulation in organizational design studies. Additionally, we argue for the development of a design theory of BPS to support the establishment and proliferation of this new and exciting research field.

Criteria for the Evaluation of Business Process Simulation Tools

This paper focuses on a process of simulation software packages selection in the context of business process change projects. The paper presents discrete event simulation, its relation to business process modelling and examples of its practical applications in business process change projects. Features of business process simulation tools are examined, the most important simulation features are identified and the criteria for their evaluation are defined. The guidelines that could help managers in the selection of business process simulation tools are proposed. The discussion addresses the limitations of the proposed guidelines. Finally, based on the conducted research and the evaluation criteria defined within the guidelines, some directions for the further improvement of business process simulation tools are given.

Criteria for simulation software evaluation

In simulation software selection problems, packages are evaluated either on their own merits or in comparison with other packages. In either method, a list of criteria for the evaluation of simulation software is essential for proper selection. Although various simulation software evaluation checklists do exist, there are differences in the lists provided and the terminologies used. This paper presents a comprehensive list of criteria structured in a hierarchical framework for simulation software evaluation, consisting of seven main groups and several subgroups. An explanation for each criterion is provided and an analysis of the usability of the proposed framework is further discussed.

Knowledge and Business Process Management

Directions and trends in knowledge management research knowledge economy simulation modelling intelligent agents for knowledge management in e-commerce knowledge management knowledge management in action the learning enactment of process knowledge bridging the gap from the general to the specific by linking knowledge management to business processes designing organizational memory in knowledge-intensive companies opportunities for data mining and customer knowledge management for shopping centres managing knowledge in a collaborative context technical aspects of knowledge management a framework for managing knowledge in requirements identification the impact of the knowledge economy on leadership in organizations the role of teams in business process change.

Methodological approach to manufacturing simulation software selection

A growing increase in the use of simulation for the analysis of manufacturing systems has resulted in a rise in the number of both general purpose and application oriented simulation software products. As simulation software selection is often costly and time consuming, the need for a structured approach to software selection is apparent. This paper presents a methodology for simulation software selection in the form of the actions to be taken and factors to be considered during the evaluation and selection of simulation software. Such an approach, when appropriately applied, should result in more effective simulation software selection and application.