Survey of BPR experiences in Iran: reasons for success and failure

Purpose – This paper aims at studying the success and failure of BPR projects executed throughout Iran. For this purpose, effective indices and also factors of success and failure are to be investigated. Design/methodology/approach – Based on statistical analysis of efficiency indexes mean value and project effectiveness, as well as the test outputs for the projects' total success, it was proved that except for the two organizations, the rest lack necessary efficiency and except for two organizations, the others lack necessary effectiveness. Findings – The total success test outputs has verified the results of the two above‐mentioned tests, so by 95 percent of assurance, it has to be commented that BPR projects executed in Iran have failed to reach predefined acceptable success. Practical implications – The lack of data from organizations is a big problem in BPR projects in Iran. Originality/value – The article recommends that every BPR project before execution needs deployment of success factors such as: preparation for change, planning, recognition and design, evaluation, culture and change, information technology, and outcome in governmental organizations.