A method for evaluating information systems from workflow models: Results from a case study

In this dynamic age of corporate acquisitions, mergers, and downsizing, decisions concerning optimization of workflow require workflow modeling and, potentially, evaluation of legacy technology that supports the workflow as represented in the model. This paper describes a case study of workflow modeling and the method of evaluation used by a Department of Defense (DoD) to determine the optimal information system to be used in supporting the workflow. The workflow that was modeled was the business of hazardous material and hazardous waste management at any typical DoD military installation. The workflow model consisted of 65 business activities organized in a hierarchical manner as identified and defined by DoD hazardous substance and hazardous waste subject matter experts. These activities served as the foundation for the creation of a questionnaire of 165 questions that was used to select three information systems out of the over three hundred known systems that supported one or more of the 65 workflow activities within the DoD. In effect, this DoD experience demonstrated the effectiveness of an EMS-supported modeling methodology and a method for the creation of an instrument for the evaluation of legacy systems based upon the workflow model. We argue that this method is generalizable to any organization that needs to develop criteria for evaluation of information systems that support workflow.