Deep Integration of Decision Modelling into Process Modelling

Abstract

Many decision-making processes require interaction – e.g., for gathering missing information or asking for approval of intermediate decision. However, in real business processes, the integration of process logic and decision logic is tighter than reflected by the modelling standards Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN), Case Management and Model Notation (CMMN) and Decision Model and Notation (DMN). In this thesis, a solution, which integrates decision modelling more deeply into process modelling was developed.To reach this objective, a literature review focusing on business processes and decision-making was conducted as a first step. Subsequently, a case study was conducted at the FHNW School of Business, analysing a decision-making process and visualising it with aforementioned modelling languages. The models were then verified for their correctness with defined interview partners. Consequentially, it became possible to draw conclusions about the inadequacies of the used modelling languages to represent decision-making processes. Based on these inadequacies, improvement potentials were identified and a solution – by using the Design Science research methodology – was developed, which was continuously evaluated for its applicability in the context of the case study and against quality criteria and design principles....