Analysis of business process

I have always considered ABP as one of the most tasking courses of all. This sometimes makes me worry as there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to ABP.

As time passes by, I have gotten to realize that every problem be it business or personal must pass through some key processes to enable one to get to the root of such issues.

I have summarized the process based on what has been thought by Dr Yetunde Anibaba. These are listed below

1. Understand the problem: for any problem in life, one must understand what the actual problem is. This is demonstrated in different live cases reviewed in class. There is usually a background and the background will provide context into the situation. Usually, when this stage is missed, the entire analysis becomes problematic. Without understanding what the problem is, one cannot really proceed to analyze or proffer a solution where necessary.
2. Identify and define the problem: this a follow-up task to the first activity. The process of defining the problem must be accurately done

Generate alternative: this is also one important step that should not be missed. What are the different options in the situation and coming up with the solution? What must constantly ask the question “so what”.  Here, the idea is to generate as many ideas as possible but relevant to the situation at hand. According to decision innovation, there are 3 categories to consider when looking for known decision alternatives:

• Solutions for the same decision made previously – Solutions that have worked in the past may be a good answer for the current decision, particularly if there is no new need or desire motivating change.
• Decision options not pursued for the same decision made previously – Decision alternatives that were considered previously often continue to evolve and improve. When making a decision, previously discarded options may provide the solution needed/desired now. Saving work from the decision-making process can make it easier to find these options in the future.
• Solution alternatives for the same decision made for a different situation or context – This category requires considering different situations or environments where a similar decision might be made. For example, finding a parallel decision made in a different industry could provide some innovative solutions for meeting your success criteria.
• Generate the criteria: the idea is to come up with measures in analyzing the alternatives. We had mentioned earlier that the alternatives provide different options in coming up with the solution. The different options with being measured based on different rules. The relevant stakeholders in the situation will be analyzed. This basically helps with focusing on the problem at hand rather than considering different noise in solving a case.
• Carry out the analysis: different situations call for a different approach in solving a case. While some cases are hugely qualitative, some are heavily dependent on data.
• Decision: the dilemma is there for a reason. And there has to be a decision made at the end of the analysis.
• Action Plans: this is the final stage. What is the recommendation?