A tentative integration of value stream mapping (VSM) and BPMN for improved process mapping

Abstract

To promote knowledge management and operations improvement, companies and organizations use different tools to map and analyze their processes, such as Value Stream Mapping (MFV) and Business Process Modeling and Notation (BPMN). However, each of these techniques has advantages and limitations, often requiring the same process to be mapped in more than one notation. To overcome this issue, this research aimed to explore how VSM and BPMN can be integrated for improving process mapping. Initially, we selected a business process for case study and mapped it with both VSM and BPMN notations. Then, we drawn a new process map using a tentative hybrid notation proposed by the authors that combine elements from both BPMN and VSM in a single depiction. For each process instantiation, we analyzed how the selected notation influences comprehension, treatment of complex processes, continuous improvement, and the use of performance metrics. Results show that the hybrid BPMN‐VSM notation has the potential to overcome many limitations reported in literature regarding the individual use of VSM or BPMN, while preserving the most valued characteristics of both. Although further developments are still necessary, the use of the proposed hybrid notation proved to be a promising alternative for mapping complex processes. To our knowledge, this is the first attempt to explore the possibility of a hybrid notation inspired from BPMN and VSM.

The Role of Business Process Modeling Notation in Process Improvement: A Critical Review

“…The adaptability of BPMN, particularly its integration with Value Stream Mapping (VSM), is highlighted as a significant advantage. This combination enriches process mapping and analysis, offering deeper insights into process inefficiencies and potential improvements (Soliman et al, 2022). Exploration of BPMN's interoperability with emerging digital transformation tools remains an area ripe for further research.…”

“…The versatility of BPMN extends to its ability to be combined with other process improvement tools, such as Value Stream Mapping (VSM), for enriched process mapping and analysis (Soliman et al, 2022). This capacity for integration demonstrates BPMN's adaptability, enabling it to provide enhanced process insights and facilitate a more comprehensive approach to process improvement.…”

“…BPMN's versatility is not confined to traditional process modeling; it seamlessly integrates with tools such as Value Stream Mapping (VSM), offering enriched process mapping and analysis, thus broadening its applicability and enhancing process insight (Soliman et al, 2022). Practical applications and case studies further validate the utility of BPMN in organizational improvements, demonstrating its efficacy in addressing real-world challenges through pattern realization and refinement (Kim & Chung, 2021).…”

“…Through its standardized notation, BPMN offers a clear representation of business processes, enabling effective modeling and analysis across various domains (Lopes & Guerreiro, 2023;Lopez-Arredondo et al, 2020). Its capability for integration with other process improvement tools, such as VSM, amplifies its analytical strengths, making BPMN a potent tool for pinpointing inefficiencies and improvement areas (Soliman et al, 2022).…”

“…Despite BPMN's wide-ranging utility, a critical review of the literature reveals specific gaps needing further exploration, such as its full interoperability with emerging digital transformation tools and comprehensive case studies evaluating BPMN's impact on software development lifecycle efficiency (Campos & Oliveira, 2013;Darusulistyo et al, 2023;Soliman et al, 2022).…”