Using Process Analysis and Modelling in an Integrated Problem Solving Approach to Business Performance Improvement

Abstract

Thearticle develops a conceptualization ofproblem solving and decision making which synthesizes a number of
models and approachesin the context of multi-methodological practice to process analysis and performance
management.It also emphasizes the combining of hard and soft systems methodologies and the mutual
complementarity of methods and tools incorporated into and associated with these methodologies.An important part
in a search for feasible and desirable changes in business systems under complexity and uncertainty is given to the
problem structuring at different levels of performance management.The developed overall framework of problem
solving for performance improvement is based on Soft System Dynamics Methodology and the combined
applications of logico-linguistic modelling, causal analysis, petri nets, process-centric modelling, network modelling,
simulation and others.A loading-unloading process at warehouse (cargo terminal) has been taken to examine the
application of the framework.
Keywords: Decision making, Modelling and simulation, Problem solving, Problem structuring, Process, Systems
approaches.