Project Summary
A leading science company sought to establish a structured Business Process Management (BPM) framework to support its transition to SAP S/4HANA. The organization faced challenges in process documentation, standardization, and ownership, making it difficult to scale and comply with industry requirements. Through the adoption of a BPM Repository tool, Scheer Americas successfully implemented an operating model and process hierarchy, providing clarity and efficiency in the company’s process landscape.
Organization Background
The company operates in the specialty chemicals sector, producing high-purity compounds used across multiple industries. With a recent restructuring and acquisition by a private equity firm, there was an urgent need to standardize business processes and establish a clear BPM framework. The organization aimed to optimize its operational model in preparation for an enterprise-wide rollout of SAP S/4HANA.
Business Challenge
Prior to the engagement, the organization struggled with the following challenges:
- Lack of structured process documentation
- Incorrect use of BPMN methodologies
- Ambiguities in process levels and hierarchy
- Absence of designated process owners
- Limited knowledge and experience with BPM Repositories
These issues hindered the company’s ability to achieve operational excellence, meet compliance requirements, and ensure scalability for future growth.
Solution
Scheer IDS Americas introduced a structured BPM transformation approach, leveraging a BPM Repository tool to standardize and document processes. Key initiatives included:
- Designing an Operating Model: Defined end-to-end business processes (L1-L4) with clear ownership and execution.
- Establishing Process Hierarchy: Rebuilt processes from a review of antiquated SOPs and SME validation, then linked in the repository.
- Enabling Core Teams with BPM Knowledge: Delivered a comprehensive training program to equip internal teams with the necessary BPM and tool expertise.
- Documenting End-to-End (E2E) Processes: Mapped 11 workstreams systematically to align processes with industry best practices.
- BPM Playbook: Provided customized standards, guidelines, and governance frameworks to sustain process improvement efforts.
Results
The BPM transformation resulted in significant operational improvements, including:
- Structured Process Hierarchy within a BPM Repository: Well-defined process levels (L1-L4) provided clear process ownership and accountability.
- Proper BPMN Conventions Implemented: The organization’s process documentation was standardized to align with best practices.
- Improved Process Ownership: Clear roles and responsibilities were assigned to ensure accountability in process execution.
- BPM Enablement: The internal team was fully trained, ensuring sustainable BPM adoption.
- Readiness for S/4HANA Implementation: With a well-structured process repository, the company is now well-positioned for a seamless transition to SAP S/4HANA.
