The application of business process re-engineering in the UK - a study of the key factors for success

Business Process Reengineering (BPR) has been promoted as one of the major techniques of change management within organisations. However, it has been claimed that up to 70% of all reengineering initiatives fail. The aim of this research was to identify the key factors for success of BPR applications in UK based companies. A survey found that the main reasons for applying the technique were external competitive pressures, internal cost reduction, and productivity improvements. The main barriers to successful implementation were reported as tactical short-term solution driven approaches, which inadequately considered the people issues, and an over reliance on IT based technology. It is proposed that the factors for success include adopting a strategic approach, which prioritises business processes for BPR projects. This should include the establishment of appropriate company-wide targets and measures that emphasise continuous improvement for the long term. Finally, management needs to motivate and involve employees as a key enabler by removing their fears that BPR is really a 'downsizing' exercise, and emphasising improved co-ordination of people and technology.