VIVACE: A Framework for the Systematic Evaluation of Variability Support in Process-Aware Information Systems

Ayora, Clara and Torres, Victoria and Weber, Barbara and Reichert, Manfred and Pelechano, Vicente (2015) VIVACE: A Framework for the Systematic Evaluation of Variability Support in Process-Aware Information Systems. Information and Software Technology, 57 . pp. 248-276.

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Abstract

CONTEXT

The increasing adoption of process-aware information systems (PAISs) such as workflow management systems, enterprise resource planning systems, or case management systems, together with the high variability in business processes (e.g., sales processes may vary depending on the respective products and countries), has resulted in large industrial process model repositories. To cope with this business process variability, the proper management of process variants along the entire process lifecycle becomes crucial.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this paper is to develop a fundamental understanding of business process variability. In particular, the paper will provide a framework for assessing and comparing process variability approaches and the support they provide for the different phases of the business process lifecycle (i.e., process analysis and design, configuration, enactment, diagnosis, and evolution).

METHOD

We conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) in order to discover how process variability is supported by existing approaches.

RESULTS

The SLR resulted in 63 primary studies which were deeply analyzed. Based on this analysis, we derived the VIVACE framework. VIVACE allows assessing the expressiveness of a process modeling language regarding the explicit specification of process variability. Furthermore, the support provided by a process-aware information system to properly deal with process model variants can be assessed with VIVACE as well.

CONCLUSIONS

VIVACE provides an empirically-grounded framework for process engineers that enables them to evaluate existing process variability approaches as well as to select that variability approach meeting their requirements best. Finally, it helps process engineers in implementing PAISs supporting process variability along the entire process lifecycle.

Item Type: Article
Additional Information: Highlights - We conducted a systematic literature review to provide a fundamental and profound understanding of business process variability. - We present the VIVACE framework for evaluating and comparing variability support in business processes. - We illustrate how the VIVACE framework is applied to selected business process variability approaches. - The VIVACE framework enables systematic comparison of different process variability approaches.
Uncontrolled Keywords: Business process; Business process variability; Process-aware information systems; Process family; Systematic literature review
Subjects: DBIS Research > Publications
Depositing User: Prof. Dr. Manfred Reichert
Date Deposited: 17 Jun 2014 12:07
Last Modified: 01 Feb 2015 10:12
URI: http://dbis.eprints.uni-ulm.de/id/eprint/1058

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