Authors:
J. J. M. Trienekens
1
;
H. L. Romero
2
and
L. Cuenca
3
Affiliations:
1
Open University, Netherlands
;
2
ASML, Netherlands
;
3
University of Polytechnics Valencia, Spain
Keyword(s):
Case Study, Contextual Factors, Process Harmonization, IT Integration.
Related
Ontology
Subjects/Areas/Topics:
Coupling and Integrating Heterogeneous Data Sources
;
Databases and Information Systems Integration
;
e-Business
;
Enterprise Engineering
;
Enterprise Information Systems
;
Organisational Issues on Systems Integration
Abstract:
While process harmonization is increasingly mentioned and unanimously associated with several benefits, there is a need for more understanding of how it contributes to business process redesign and improvement. This paper presents the application, in an industrial case study, of a conceptual harmonization model on the relationship between drivers and effects of process harmonization. The drivers are called contextual factors which influence harmonization. Assessment of these contextual factors in a particular business domain, clarifies the extent of harmonization that can be achieved, or that should be strived at. From both qualitative, as well as some quantitative, assessment results, insights are being discussed on the extent of harmonization that can be achieved, and on action plans regarding business (process) harmonization and (IT) integration.