Towards Mode 2 knowledge production : Analysis and proposal of a framework for research in business processes

Purpose Research in business processes has been developed around a disciplinary approach toward the production of traditional knowledge, known as Mode 1. The problems studied with this approach are solved in a context in which academic knowledge prevails, with no major concerns regarding its practical applicability. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to propose a structure for knowledge production based on Mode 2 for business process researches. Design/methodology/approach A bibliometric research was conducted to define and conceptualize the classes of disciplinary problems, by assessing the years 2007-2012 of the Business Process Management Journal publications. Findings A framework for the Mode 2 knowledge production was proposed in the development of research in business process and conceptualized classes of problems related to this issue. Research limitations/implications This work was carried out with specific focus on research in business process, so the defined classes of problems cannot be generalized. Originality/value The studies identified by this research are in the form of a disciplinary approach toward the production of traditional knowledge, known as Mode 1. This paper aims to fill the gap of a transdisciplinary production of knowledge and practical application, known as Mode 2 in the context of business process.