A virtual test environment for business processess

Abstract

The current paper describes a major research project on knowledge, methods and (software) tools to test and redesign business processes in a systematic fashion. The project uses the following approach: create a model for an alternative, newly set-up business process containing a high reality level. Analysis and testing of this model is done 'off-line', separately from the actual business management. The project develops knowledge, methods and (software) tools for the modelling of such a test process, the analysis and manipulation of this model and the preparation of its introduction. Whilst the business process to be replaced continues undisturbed, a new business process is being designed in the test environment. The business processes of interest are so-called data-intensive and can be found in service-organisations such as banks, pension and insurance companies, and government institutions. In the project major service-organisations participate. The project has been set up by the Telematics Research Centere (TRC) in Enschede, the Netherlands, in co-operation with ABP (a large Dutch pension company), ING Group, the Dutch tax department and IBM, and is also subsidised by the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs.