Business process management: from a critical review to a contemporary ontological entity

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to explore the theoretical foundations of the business process domain and to propose a conceptual unified and agile approach. The authors undertake a systematic examination of literature from a critical perspective on key business process aspects, introduced by the most influential approaches based on their citation impact. The review and interpretation of established business process aspects lead to a conceptual ontological entity with clear boundaries and interrelated components that supports continuous modification of its design. Following, a similar analysis of BPM definitions and life-cycles results in matching the most frequently occurring cycle steps on specific components of the proposed structure, thus, bridging the gap between business process and BPM life-cycle models. Overall, the approach aims to clarify and connect core business process aspects and assist organisations in apprehending the various life-cycle stages towards utilising appropriate and adaptive tools and phases.