Standard processes in companies

Before we clarify what standard processes are, let’s first look at the definition of the term process. The standard (in this case DIN ISO 9001:2015 ) states that a process requires a systematic approach. The word process comes from the Latin procedere, which means to go forward. Processes are defined as a sequence of individual steps. Intervention in the processes is transformed into process results by working through the steps. A suitable representation of the process steps can take the form of a flow chart, for example.

What are standard processes?

Standard processes are those processes which, as the name suggests, occur as standard in companies and are subject to certain standards. For example, an ordering process – here the procedure is mostly the same. From the receipt of the order to the delivery of the goods to the customer.
Other examples of standard processes are: Purchasing of goods, production, storage, financing, sales, marketing or even the dunning process.
Of course, standardizations should only be applied if there are sufficient advantages in the company to make their use sensible.
If they have already been implemented, however, the standardization of individual processes in companies should be checked again and again and implemented if necessary. As already explained, this can contribute to a significant increase in efficiency in the company.

If this process always goes through the same steps, it can be defined as a standard process. Standardized processes are particularly important and advantageous in process management.

Standardprozess
Diagram  of a standard process

Define & describe processes

a) Idetifying processes: The processes must first be identified within the company. This can be done through surveys, interviews or workshops. In most cases, however, companies already know their processes. However, these are often poorly documented or not documented at all. Here it is necessary to create more trsnaprenz. And also to reconsider: Are my processes okay? Just because a process has worked in the company for years, it does not necessarily mean that it will continue to do so in the years to come. For example, because some framework conditions have changed.
b) Delimit processes: Here it is necessary to delineate more precisely: Which work steps really belong to a process? The delimitation of a process refers to several aspects: on the one hand, the upstream and downstream processes, as well as processes or activities that belong to them in terms of content.
c) Describe processes: The individual process steps should now be described in detail and it should also be defined what constitutes the process.
d) Document processes: Good documentation provides a detailed, understandable process description.

Benefits of standard processes

  • Higher cost efficiency
  • Cost savings through specialized division of labor
  • Less individual risk of action
  • Higher transparency
  • Reduction of coordination effort (superiors)
  • Reduction of personal interventions by superiors
  • Standardized interfaces to business partners can be used
  • Mapping of identical and similar processes only necessary once
  • Transparent internal and external presentation of the company through
  • Comprehensible processes
  • Stabilization through behavioral expectation
  • Facilitation of hiring, transfer, succession and personnel evaluation

Standard processes and Cloud systems

Since cloud systems have become increasingly popular, the basic attitude of those responsible in companies has also changed fundamentally. It has become clear that standard processes are advantageous and represent the right path for companies in the medium and long term. Of course, it is difficult to question processes that have been established over many years. Or even to change them. This is where the human factor comes into play and should think through the process steps mentioned above.

When selecting a cloud ERP system, the processes should be reconsidered and defined, as already described above. Aligning with standard processes can be quite useful. Some advantages of this have already been described in this article. In our opinion, the two ERP solutions SAP Business ByDesign and Infor LN are particularly suitable here. They map standard processes, but are still flexible in their area of application. After all, even standards and preconceived solutions must be flexible and adaptable. Only in this way can we speak of best practice. Consider how useful this can be in your company.

In our blog Implementierung von SAP Business ByDesign – ein Prozessbeispiel we illustrate the steps in the implementation process by way of example. The implementation of software is also a process that can be standardized.

Need more information about processes or process optimization?

Marcel MJR GmbH

Marcel Kosel
Sales Manager

Output Management with InterFormNG2
Interfaces or integration