The acronym "BPM" is muddled, making it difficult for business executives to turn to business process management solutions that can improve operations. According to a blog on Information Management, the term BPM is outdated and a bit "stuffy." Some who aren't as in tune with new technological trends find BPM a little cloudy and intimidating. The blog suggested that IT leaders focus on how solutions can help individuals to do their jobs better. This will create more excitement around new solutions.
"There is a crying need for all of us to improve process. But if we use those three little letters- BPM- suddenly you watch audiences disappear before your eyes," said Mark McGregor, MWD principal analyst. McGregor believes this isn't because BPM is a useless technology unworthy of deployment.
'BPM' instills fear
Instead, the terminology scares some away from solutions, especially those who aren't particularly tech-savvy. Enterprises deploying BPM are usually successful when they take a careful approach, understanding the technology and taking implementation step by step. McGregor suggested focusing on employees and how the way they perform tasks can improve, rather than the capabilities of a software solution. If employees can understand concrete ways that BPM will help them, they'll be more likely to adopt BPM software.
"If you just focus on people, then you will find that all of the other things happen," said McGregor. "Working with people is going to get you a long, long way."
According to a forum on Ebiz, a similar phenomenon is happening with executives. The C-suite needs to get in on BPM initiatives to be effective. Because the C-suite makes important decisions regarding the company's future goals, it's essential that they understand available technologies that could help improve their offerings and operations. Keeping communication open between IT departments, corporate decision-makers and others can help facilitate the implementation of beneficial processes, the news source reported.
No matter what solutions IT decision-makers are considering, communication and understanding are key to getting executives and other employees on board for adoption of new solutions. Change is often met with resistance, making it important to provide information regarding BPM so it doesn't sound like a tech-savvy, complex solution.
Malcolm Ross
Vice President of Product Marketing
