Proposal of BPMN extension with a view to effective modeling of clinical pathways

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of the article is to propose BPMN extensions that facilitate the modeling of Clinical Pathways in a way that enables for various groups of users, the transfer of a much wider range of information in the form of process models without compromising their readability and usefulness.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses the design science research methodology (DSRM) and covers phases of a design-oriented research project extending BPMN notation for clinical pathway modeling.FindingsThe article proposes extensions of BPMN in 5 areas, enabling standardization of the description of business processes of different natures and complexity and in turn meeting the needs and requirements of modeling clinical pathways and, more broadly speaking, knowledge-intensive business processes (kiBPs) in general. As shown by the evaluation carried out among medical personnel, the proposed extensions allow for the readable transfer of a considerably larger body of information relevant to the planned, conducted and assessed therapy (kiBPs) than the current BPMN 2.0 standard.Originality/valueThe BPMN extensions proposed in the article fill the gaps in this notation and do not require users to know many notations, which in practice is unrealistic. Defined extensions to the BPMN specification makes it possible to standardise the description of processes of different natures and levels of complexity. In this way, both simplified models (and views of models) dedicated to users unfamiliar with BPMN and models (or views) using advanced possibilities provided by BPMN can be based on one standard, even if they use only a small part of its possibilities.

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

“…The imperative role of BPMN in organizational process improvement is well documented across a spectrum of industries, including technology services, supply chain management, and health care (Lopes & Guerreiro, 2023;Lopez-Arredondo et al, 2020;Negara & Doni, 2020;Szelągowski et al, 2022;Zarour et al, 2020). This universal applicability underscores BPMN's effectiveness in not only modeling but also analyzing and refining business processes to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness.…”

“…By providing standardized graphical notation, BPMN simplifies the representation of business processes, enabling clearer communication and collaboration across an organization. This facilitates a unified approach to process analysis and improvement, underscoring BPMN's role as a solution to operational challenges across various sectors (Negara & Doni, 2020;Stitzlein et al, 2013;Szelągowski et al, 2022).…”

“…BPMN''s application in diverse industries-from technology services to health care and supply chain management-underscores its versatility and effectiveness in addressing unique industry-specific challenges. Its practical utility in realizing and refining process improvement patterns showcases its role in tangible organizational enhancements (Kim & Chung, 2021;Negara & Doni, 2020;Stitzlein et al, 2013;Szelągowski et al, 2022).…”

“…Business Process Modeling Notation (BPMN) has become a linchpin for enhancing organizational efficiency and process improvement across various industries. As a standardized graphical notation, BPMN allows for the detailed modeling, analysis, and refinement of business processes, proving its indispensability in sectors ranging from technology and health care to supply chain management (Lopez-Arredondo et al, 2020;Negara & Doni, 2020;Szelągowski et al, 2022;Zarour et al, 2020).…”

“…The application of BPMN across diverse industries highlights its versatility and effectiveness in addressing unique challenges. Case studies across sectors such as technology, healthcare, and supply chain management reveal BPMN's practical utility in organizational enhancements (Kim & Chung, 2021;Negara & Doni, 2020;Stitzlein et al, 2013;Szelągowski et al, 2022). In software development and knowledge management, BPMN supports the structured representation of workflows, aiding in the understanding, analysis, and execution of development processes (Campos & Oliveira, 2013;Chinosi & Trombetta, 2012;Jung et al, 2022;Pańkowska, 2019).…”