Understanding business process management: implications for theory and practice

This paper presents an empirically validated conceptual model of Business Process Management(BPM) to enable the pursuit of BPM theory. Phase One of the research focussed on the development of an initial model of BPM, derived from a synthesis of current literature. Thismodel consists of five key themes, subsequently categorised as ‘application components’ of BPM. The empirical validation of the model was approached in two further phases. Phase Two involved the application and initial assessment of the model within fifteen Financial Servicescompanies. Phase Three of the research involved case-based research in the company emerging as the most ‘process mature’ during the initial assessment. The results suggest that, in addition to confirming the five ‘application components’ of the initial model, three additional ‘conceptualcomponents’ are important. These concepts differentiate BPM from other process management activities, and inform a fundamental mindset for the conscious and sustained management of end-to-end processes.