Process configuration for contemporary enterprise systems is a major task given the amount of business processes that these systems target and their rich functionality. Especially in large corporations, however, different parts of the organization may require for configuring processes differently. This may result from geographical dispersion and the resulting necessity for obtaining different national laws, different parts policies in different parts of the organization or the management structure in the organization. In a scenario where different parts of the organization can freely configure their parts of an enterprise system, and also with the business processes of the enterprise system, it is no longer possible to look at generalized business processes from an “organization as a whole” perspective. Thus, there exists no consistent support for a consolidated view on business process management from the perspective of the entire organization.
For example, an organization may primarily exist of three subunits—each located in different countries. To perform a business process, such as invoice processing, each subunit has a need to configure the software-supported generalized process to meet their own needs. These needs can include abiding by local law, conforming to subunit management preferences and responding to customer requirements. As a result, each subunit has their own unique process. To provide consistent process related guidance for all three subunits, the challenge lies in how to merge those three processes into one single process model yet still allow for the requirements of each subunit.
One option for merging these similar, yet disparate, processes is to re-code a brand new singular process for all of the subunits. This approach would typically involve a team of programmers and stakeholders to plan the project, execute the project and finally provide support after installation. Obviously, this could be a very expensive option and time-consuming operation. Additionally, once the project is completed, any new requirements would most likely require even more time and money to implement.
Yet another possible alternative is to implement an entirely new system. This option would also be rather time-intensive and most certainly expensive. As a result, this path is also not so desirable.
In view of the foregoing, it may be useful to provide methods and systems that facilitate process consolidation of varying aspects of an organization while still allowing for customization to meet the needs of those varying aspects of the organization.
The present invention is described and illustrated in conjunction with systems, tools and methods of varying scope which are meant to be exemplary and illustrative, not limiting in scope.
A computer-implemented method for consolidating models, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment, includes converting a plurality of network specific models into a plurality of network common models wherein the plurality of network common models has a common granularity level and common technical terms. A consolidated model skeleton is then created based on the plurality of network common models wherein the consolidated model skeleton includes one or more common functions from each network specific model of the plurality of network specific models. Finally, unconnected functions in the consolidated model skeleton are connected with a branched function.
A computer-implemented method for consolidating models, in accordance with another exemplary embodiment, includes converting a plurality of network specific models into a plurality of network common models wherein the plurality of network common models has a common granularity level and common technical terms wherein a compiler converts a network specific model of the plurality of network specific models to the common granularity level if a granularity level of the network specific model is coarser than the common granularity level, and wherein a decompiler converts a network specific model of the plurality of network specific models to the common granularity level if a granularity level of the network specific model is finer than the common granularity level. A consolidated model skeleton is then created based on the plurality of network common models wherein the consolidated model skeleton includes one or more common functions from each network specific model of the plurality of network specific models. Finally, unconnected functions in the consolidated model skeleton are connected with a branched function.
In addition to the aspects and embodiments of the present invention described in this summary, further aspects and embodiments of the invention will become apparent by reference to the drawings and by reading the detailed description that follows.
An aspect of the present invention contemplates methods and systems for process consolidation. Varying models that characterize the differing operations of an organization are converted to an integrated model. Common processes of the converted models are identified and a new model is constructed based on the common processes. Non-common processes are then incorporated to allow for customization for the differing operations of the organization. Advantageously, aspects of the present invention enables implementation of an organization-wide ERP software system yet still allow for customization for various subunits. As a result, an organization can efficiently implement ERP software and still meets the needs of the various subunits. Moreover, it supports a centralized and integrated view on the various ways of operation.
To convert M1 120 to the standard granularity, it is processed through a coarse to standard compiler 150. The converted model is then processed through a coarse to standard dictionary 160 so that the converted model 170 will have a common set of technical terms. In a similar manner, M3 140 is processed through a fine to standard decompiler 180 and a fine to standard dictionary 190.
While this invention has been described in terms of certain embodiments, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that certain modifications, permutations and equivalents thereof are within the inventive scope of the present invention. It is therefore intended that the following appended claims include all such modifications, permutations and equivalents as fall within the true spirit and scope of the present invention.