Some say Digitalization - others say IT-enabled Process Management thought through to the End

Abstract

Although automation and data processing in workflows are fundamental objectives of business process management (BPM), many different new catchwords are discussed in the context of the megatrend digitalization. Researchers and practitioners are confronted with a multitude of new terms which refer both to well-known as well as to new ideas for the digital transformation within process-oriented organizations. Based on a qualitative literature study, this article explores three current trends of BPM (social-, data-, and case-driven BPM). A comprehensive content analysis of recognized conference proceedings examines which modern catchword is part of which of these three current trends. The discussion of single as well as grouped catchwords demonstrates that the consideration of trend categories may explain the facets of digitalization. To summarize, the consequent consideration of modern BPM trends and new catchwords sets many important technical and methodological impulses for smart solutions, products, services and processes.