Process-Oriented Modeling and Analysis of Business Processes using the R/3 Reference Model

Abstract

In many companies, the business processes of logistics, accounting and human resources are unclear — or often even unknown. With the R/3 Reference Model, a tool is available to users that, taking variants (scenario examples) into consideration, clearly portrays business processes of the R/3 system.The introduction of standard software such as SAP’s R/3 makes it possible to reengineer existing processes together with organizational structures. New business solutions are derived from the vast amount of process know-how build into the R/3 System from over 23 years of industry experience.In order to support this introduction, SAP has developed the R/3 Reference Model, a business process model for the processes supported by the R/3 software. It serves as the knowledge base for consultants, managers, and project staff.The processes are described within the R/3 Reference Model by process, function, data, organization, and interaction views. The R/3 Reference Model covers all R/3 Business Applications including Sales and Distribution, Human Resources, and Finance by depicting overall functionality as well as the integration of the application areas.The purpose of this paper is to describe SAP’s process modeling method, especially the process view, and to delineate the benefits of using the R/3 Reference Model.