Neomind

Tag: business process management

  • Just in Time: What it is and what benefits it brings

    Just in Time: What it is and what benefits it brings

    Looking for an increasingly prosperous and successful future? Just in Time, or JIT, is a method adopted by visionary and efficient companies.

    This concept is a broad approach that involves not only production process but the entire supply chain and other components of your business operations.

    In this context, “Just in Time” means “at the right moment” or “at the right time.” It’s the concept of using materials without waste, avoiding high storage levels.

    It is about continuous improvement that impacts your company’s performance directly. And it brings even more benefits when associated with technological resources such as management software and automation.

    Ready to dive into the world of operational efficiency? Discover now what Just in Time management entails.

    How Did Just in Time emerged, and what exactly is it?

    Just in Time is a methodology that emerged in the 1970s in Japan, specifically at the Toyota Motor Company. It was developed with the goal of coordinating production so that limited natural resources were used without waste.

    Moreover, it aimed to deliver products at the right time, without delays, particularly considering that the automotive industry was growing rapidly at the time.

    In summary, Just in Time considers that nothing should be acquired, produced, transported, or sold before “the right time.” Its key feature is connecting production with demand to reduce stock levels.

    Based on the Lean methodology (lean companies reduce waste while maintaining quality), Just in Time ensures that there is no excess inventory, whether of finished products or raw materials. Production only happens when actual demand is confirmed by the customer.

    Due to its strong connection to inventory control, the methodology is supported and enhanced by process management platforms and approaches that standardize the flow of activities throughout the entire production chain.

    How Does This Methodology Work in Practice?

    Just in Time has a series of principles, but it can function in various ways across different industries. The main aspects of how this methodology works include:

    • Demand-Driven Production: Production operates on a pull system, only triggered when there is actual customer demand. In other words, only what is necessary will be produced, avoiding undue storage. The entire workflow is planned so that there is time for each stage to be completed before the next one begins;
    • Labor: JIT is not only related to physical inputs but also involves labor, which must respond productively and administratively. The company should focus on qualified labor, continuously investing in updates, training, and development;
    • Physical Structure: For everything to work properly, the company’s physical space must be organized to facilitate workflow. The structure needs to be planned to enable the execution of the entire planned activity flow;
    • Quality: Quality control is essential throughout the production process. Companies must combine speed with efficiency. With small batches, any problem can be identified and corrected immediately;
    • Suppliers and Partners: JIT requires close relationships and collaboration between suppliers and manufacturers. Suppliers must deliver inputs exactly when necessary to meet a specific demand. These relationships must be solid and reliable.

    For this approach to truly work, certain JIT specifications must be followed, such as:

    • Continuous process improvement;
    • Use of Kanban to manage input demands;
    • Halting production after fulfilling specific demand;
    • Immediate shipment of the finished product to consumers;
    • Receipt of inputs in smaller quantities and higher delivery frequency.

    Why Use Just in Time?

    There are many reasons to justify implementing the Just in Time technique in companies, with the following standing out:

    • Cost and waste reduction;
    • More efficient and effective processes;
    • Mapping and standardizing processes;
    • Greater productivity;
    • Continuous improvement;
    • Optimized production;
    • Flexibility and agility in production;
    • Improved internal and external communication;
    • Greater accuracy and quality;
    • Increased safety and reduced risk;
    • Optimized inventory management;
    • Limited production;
    • Rigorous goods quality management.

    Technological solutions are great allies of Just in Time

    Since the Just in Time approach focuses on producing the necessary items at the right time and in the right quantity, processes must be standardized.

    Standardizing processes is the only way to ensure agility and meet short deadlines. With time precisely measured, JIT does not allow for constant changes in processes. Everyone must know exactly what their activities and responsibilities are.

    Adopting a process management platform makes it possible to automate tasks so they occur correctly, without errors or bottlenecks.

    BPMS is a feature of Neomind’s Fusion Platform where tasks like orders, purchases, and logistics can be executed and controlled.

    Managing inventories, for example, prevents products from sitting idle, and purchase management ensures that the necessary inputs are available when needed.

    The production sector itself checks Kanban indicators on the Fusion Platform and uses the platform to send purchase requests. This demand goes through all related sectors, such as purchasing, inventory, and finance.

    The software also manages documents so that budgets and contracts with suppliers can be executed. The platform even has native electronic signing, meaning agreements are made promptly.

    All process information, documents, and indicators are centralized in Fusion. This ensures the integration of information, allowing production based on demand.

    In Central Analytics, all indicators can be consulted and monitored in real-time.

    As you can see, we’re talking about a complete solution that contributes to Just in Time and the overall efficiency of the company.

    Take the opportunity to try Fusion Platform. Automate processes, centralize data, and integrate all departments in your company towards continuous growth and success.

  • Fusion Platform 4.0 is here! Check out all our new features

    Fusion Platform 4.0 is here! Check out all our new features

    If you think that Fusion Platform, being a complete management software, can’t improve, guess again! What was already great just got even better!

    At Neomind, we always work to offer new features capable of ensuring mobility, innovation, and security to our users and their data. We strive to be one step ahead, understanding businesses’ needs and providing them with solutions that make their activities less complex and more productive.

    Since 2023, we have been releasing new modules, and now, we are excited to announce the arrival of Fusion Platform 4.0, which brings a series of innovations to enhance your business management.

    Stay up-to-date with all the news and functionalities brought by this new update.

    What to expect from Fusion Platform 4.0?

    Fusion Platform 4.0 will continue with the mission of boosting and contributing to the efficiency and success of businesses. For this new version, the focus is to offer an even more robust, simplified, and intuitive management experience.

    In the pursuit of optimizing your operations and demonstrating all the benefits and possibilities brought, such as the central signing hub and the new form engine, check out in detail all the innovations of Fusion Platform 4.0:

    The major news: the Form Engine

    It’s simply undeniable how fundamental forms are for the continuity of our processes. Currently, Fusion Platform already allows for the creation and management of these forms in a practical and intuitive way.

    However, version 4.0 comes with a revamped Form Engine: new user interface visuals and updated functionalities. The emphasis is on enhancing usability, responsiveness, and performance.

    Its design is aimed at optimizing how you interact with the platform and its overall efficiency.

    The solution is fully customizable, with the ability to create a variety of fields, such as text boxes, selections, radio buttons, among others. Additionally, add conditional logic to hide or show fields in the form based on user responses.

    Now you can automate your workflow with automatic notifications, approval requests, tracking, and much more.

    The new Forms Engine in Fusion Platform offers:

    • Up-to-date technologies: ensuring an updated form experience;
    • Efficiency: fast and intuitive form filling and processing;
    • Usability: an intuitive and user-friendly interface, making interaction with forms simpler and more accessible;
    • Attractive visual design: an appealing design, contributing to a more pleasant experience and encouraging user participation;
    • Performance: optimized performance to ensure that forms load and function quickly and effectively.

    Multiple authentication methods

    Those already familiar with Fusion Platform know that, being a management software that streamlines information, there is an immense and very justified concern with security and access control.

    In the new version, users will be able to input and enable several authentication methods, such as automatic authentication or login and password combinations.

    To ensure traceability, every user must perform authentication to access the software. And, with the aim of providing greater agility and customization, employees will be able to choose how they want to perform these authentications.

    Risk Management

    We know that risks can affect your business deeply and negatively when they’re not identified, analyzed, and evaluated. Our goal should always be to reduce or eliminate uncertainties, or turn them into opportunities.

    Given the complexity of this mission, Neomind provides a complete Risk Management module.

    Fusion Platform 4.0 promotes effective risk detection and monitoring, with visual representation through the risk matrix.

    Another significant advantage is its ISO 31001 compliance. This standard is an international benchmark that provides guidelines for implementing a risk management system.

    In addition to identifying risks, your business will be able to create a response plan for risk mitigation, enabling proactive management to turn uncertainties into growth opportunities.

    Electronic signature updates

    Facilitating process progression and reducing bottlenecks, electronic signing have been available on Fusion Platform for some time.

    However, version 4.0 aims to bring even more convenience. Now, users who need to send documents can use the Electronic Signature Module with WhatsApp integration.

    That’s right, now it’s possible to sign much more quickly and easily, without the need to access other platforms.

    With increased flexibility for configuring signatories, it is possible to choose how the file link will be sent for signing. By choosing to send via the messaging app, the user receives a link and instructions to authenticate and sign the document.

    In this new model, the signature is made directly from the mobile phone, increasing corporate mobility. Mobile signing is bringing a series of optimizations to improve user usability.

    Fusion Platform 4.0 offers improved software response for signatures via mobile browser. The new version features adaptation to the mobile screen and brings more optimization and simplicity for the user.

    Another novelty we’re bringing is hybrid signing. Now users can choose between digital or electronic signatures.

    As it is complete for risk management, processes, documents, indicators, and signatures, another innovation is precisely the Signature Central. In one place, all documents with signatures will be concentrated, and this is where the types of signatories are configured.

    Users will be able to track the status of a document in real-time, with classifications: pending, signed, and completed.

    Management software and the use of Artificial Intelligence

    Artificial Intelligence is already a resource present in our daily lives and should increasingly be employed to facilitate process execution.

    Neomind has been seeking alternatives to offer the best AI resources to its clients. Version 4.0 of the management software brings the Artificial Intelligence Chatbot.

    This feature can analyze documents linked to the EDM module of Fusion, facilitating access to relevant data and information for management and decision-making.

    Users will be able to get instant answers to their questions. Additionally, there will be summaries, evaluations, and interpretations of the content of the analyzed files.

    Expanding the reach of your business, Fusion Platform 4.0 will have the Automatic Document Translation feature with Artificial Intelligence.

    This means that every processed and stored document can be translated instantly via AI. The translation possibilities cover various languages.

    And the innovations for this management software are many and don’t stop here.

    While you try Fusion Platform and enjoy all the new features’ benefits, we at Neomind are already looking for new ways to ensure the future of management and help your business reach a whole new level of success.

  • How to optimize Asset Management

    How to optimize Asset Management

    Asset Management is an important tool so that organizations can properly use all their resources to achieve their strategic objectives.

    It is quite obvious that the more efficient a company is, the greater its chances of success, and this is entirely related to the use of its assets, from purchase to disposal.

    The concern with managing assets provides the opportunity to extend their useful life, identifying moments to perform predictive maintenance or necessary replacements.

    In addition to maximizing use and reducing costs, there is guarantee of compliance and adherence to required regulations and standards.

    All these issues give greater security to customers, investors, and company employees. After all, all efforts and assets are aligned with business objectives, driving growth and increasing competitive advantages.

    What are assets?

    In a simplified explanation, an asset is everything that the company owns and can control. In other words, they are physical or non-physical objects known as tangible and intangible.

    Tangible assets are palpable, which can be visually materialized. Intangible assets are not physical, and consist of intellectual property, copyrights, brands, among others.

    Although all companies have assets, there are differences according to the sector and the nature of the business. For example:

    • Technology: intellectual property, patents, registered trademarks, programming codes, software, algorithms, equipment, servers, and hardware;
    • Financial: stocks, bonds, client portfolios, contracts, licenses, buildings, agencies;
    • Health: intellectual property on medical treatments, drug patents, medical equipment, hospital installations and their supplies;
    • Retail: brands, company reputation, stock, installations, distribution centers;
    • Industry: brands, process patents, equipment, machinery, raw material stocks, finished products.

    Both tangible and intangible assets are fundamental to underpin and sustain the growth of companies.

    In this sense, Asset Management is an essential activity for the good performance, coherence, and use of resources in business development.

    Want to know more about Asset Management and how Fusion Platform is a great ally for your company?

    Follow the link, download the free material, and enjoy the reading!

  • BPMN 2.0: Process Modeling Standardization

    BPMN 2.0: Process Modeling Standardization

    BPMN 2.0 notation is the most widely used process modeling language worldwide. It is considered the best alternative for representing company activity flows.

    But what does this actually mean? It means analyzing and describing processes to make them understandable, optimized, and manageable.

    For this, the tasks flow diagram is composed of universal symbols following international standards.

    When it comes to process management, this diagram plays a fundamental role in understanding and improving activity flow. This type of notation is key for process automation, enabling modeling to communicate with the BPM context.

    BPMN 2.0 notation is immensely important and valuable for companies in order to illustrate a process clearly and simply.

    What is BPMN 2.0?

    Known as Business Process Modeling Notation, BPMN 2.0 is a standardized graphical language for representing the flow of activities to be executed.

    Based on symbols, this visual representation is rich in complex details that favor end-to-end process modeling.

    By offering a standard notation, the tool can represent complex process semantics for technical users while remaining understandable to other collaborators.

    Initially, BPMN 2.0 was stipulated to improve communication between sectors and people. Now, as it evolves and advances, it allows processes to be illustrated, deeply understood, and improved.

    It is intended to be used by those who design, manage, and execute processes. While also translating diagrams into automation software.

    The BPMN 2.0 version is an evolution of the methodology and encompasses a set of richer and more detailed symbols and notations.

    BPMN 2.0 Characteristics

    The main characteristics of BPMN 2.0 are language standardization, use of symbols, and different elements that facilitate process visualization and understanding.

    By representing everything visually, it gives stakeholders a complete understanding of the activity flow to be followed.

    Clarity in the sequence of activities favors process implementation, modifications, and updates. Additionally, when modeling occurs through a platform, there is collaboration among professionals, resulting in high-quality descriptions.

    These diagrams can be used to generate executable code for a business process management system. This, in turn, enables process automation.

    BPMN 2.0 is maintained by the Object Management Group, an international organization that produces and maintains specifications for a technological standard.

    What should BPMN 2.0 be used for?

    Using a BPMN 2.0 notation serves a variety of purposes, including:

    • Documenting existing business processes;
    • Designing new processes;
    • Analyzing and improving processes;
    • Enabling and facilitating execution and automation;
    • Enhancing integration between professionals involved in the process;
    • Intuitive notation understandable to employees who can model processes without being BPM experts;
    • Reducing communication noise between elaboration, implementation, execution, and management of processes;
    • Supporting business process management;
    • Employee training and empowerment;
    • Integrating different software systems involved in the process.

    As a practical example, BPMN 2.0 can be used to model the production process of a product, loan approval, purchase requests, customer service, document issuance, and other processes existing in companies of various sectors, sizes, and fields of activity.

    What comprises BPMN 2.0 and how to use it

    Basically, the BPMN 2.0 language marks each action of a process with a symbol. The elements that compose this kind of diagram include:

    Flow objects

    These objects are subdivided into three parts: activities, events, and gateways.

    Activities correspond to the work that is executed, what needs to be done, and are symbolized by squares.

    Events, represented by circles, are occurrences, something that happens and can represent external events that influence activities. Gateways, symbolized by diamonds, are points that determine the path the activity flow will follow.

    Connection objects

    These elements are used to link the sequence of workflow. Represented by a solid line with an arrow, the sequence flow shows the order in which activities are executed.

    Message flow is represented by a dashed line, an open circle, and an open arrow at the end, indicating messages flowing between two or more activities.

    A dashed line symbolizes association, connecting artifacts to flow objects.

    Swimlanes

    To understand swimlanes, think of swimming competition lanes. The pools are processes and their participants. And the lanes are the roles, areas, and responsibilities inherent in these activities.

    Artifacts

    Artifacts bring greater detail to workflow and have specific representations.

    The association connector connects the artifact to a specific point in the process and is represented by a dashed line.

    Data objects are information that can be consulted to perform certain activities, symbolized by a page with the upper right corner folded. If it is to identify data entry, it will be connected with an empty arrow pointed to the folded end. In the case of output, the arrow is filled and pointed to the fold. For collection, there are three filled rectangles at the bottom of the page.

    The use of artifacts completes the flows, making them more comprehensive without affecting development. It also standardizes task execution and serves as a reminder in certain cases.

    Using all the resources of BPMN 2.0 makes the process more complete and structured, especially regarding connector resources and associations.

    Modeling processes with Fusion Platform

    As mentioned, BPMN 2.0 notation favors process modeling and automation.

    Neomind’s Fusion Platform is a process, indicator, and document management platform. And, its entire process structure may be performed using BPMN 2.0 notation.

    By streamlining information in a single system, this ensures a holistic view of your organization, assisting you in identifying areas that need to be optimized.

    The solution allows users to be created with permission to access and even edit the process activity flow and related documents.

    Being mobile-friendly, it allows information to be accessed anytime, anywhere.

    With Fusion Platform, repetitive tasks with a high error rate are automated. In other words, employees focus on more strategic and innovative activities.

    Performance measurement and performance are facilitated by real-time data visualization, making the decision-making process more effective.

    In addition to BPMN 2.0 notation, the Fusion Platform has a user-friendly interface, ease of use, and customization to meet your demands.

    One of the great advantages is that you can try Fusion Platform directly in your processes.

    Take advantage of the solution to understand the benefits of automation using a Platform for Process, Document, and Indicator Management where it is possible to model activities with BPMN 2.0.

  • BPM + RPA = Hyperautomation: The Future of Process Automation

    BPM + RPA = Hyperautomation: The Future of Process Automation

    In recent years, technological advances and their applications have been growing in importance and became a major driving, transformative force for companies. Hyperautomation is a true testament to this, representing a strategy that aims to positively change the way entire workflows are executed. This approach integrates cutting-edge technologies to automate complex and repetitive tasks, enhancing efficiency and performance.

    Hyperautomation is an innovative approach that uses intelligent technologies to identify and maximize the automation of tasks as quickly as possible. Broadly speaking, it can be said that hyperautomation is the path to a more prosperous, innovative, and successful future.

    What is Hyperautomation?

    Hyperautomation is a holistic strategy that aims to combine various tools and technologies to maximize process automation. Currently, it is the key to business excellence. From basic tasks to the most complex ones, this strategy seeks to automate everything possible. The rationale is quite simple: using a set of end-to-end technologies increases companies’ productivity and performance.

    Automation happens through user-friendly tools, pre-configured and capable of constantly learning through user interaction. Integration between systems and technologies such as AI, RPA, BPMS, low-code platforms, and machine learning are the backbone of hyperautomation. Gartner predicts that hyperautomation trends for 2024 will focus on collaboration, standardization, agility, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies.

    In a former study, Gartner pointed out that organizations should adopt at least three types of process management solutions to enhance hyperautomation. Unlike previous approaches, this holistic strategy can bring about true digital transformation in companies.

    Why is this Set of Technologies So Important?

    To make it simple, hyperautomation’s mission is to execute low-added-value tasks or processes, allowing employees to focus on strategic core business activities. Meanwhile, data is collected, stored, and processed to boost performance and improve decision-making.

    You might be wondering if your company is far from embracing hyperautomation.

    In reality, your company is likely already on this journey, taking small steps with the platforms already implemented.

    It is the integration of existing tools with new ones that will optimize processes even further, reaching a whole new level. The goal is to automate as many processes as possible, yielding even greater benefits.

    Hyperautomation advantages Include:

    • Increased company performance and employee well-being
    • Faster, more efficient, and error-free processes
    • Reduction of repetitive and error-prone manual tasks
    • Enhanced productivity and competitiveness
    • Reduced operational costs
    • Greater precision, quality, and agility
    • Improved customer experience
    • Data-driven decision-making
    • Scalability to meet growing demands
    • Integration of disruptive technologies
    • Increased capacity for innovation

    Technologies Comprising Hyperautomation

    Nowadays, technology is no longer optional but fundamental.

    To automate processes as much as possible, companies can use various tools and technologies, such as:

    • BPMS: Globally recognized for automating, simplifying, and optimizing processes by connecting activities across different departments.
    • RPA: Technology where robots are programmed to mimic human actions in digital systems, ideal for repetitive, low-value, high-volume tasks.
    • AI: Numerous implementations of Artificial Intelligence learn from human interaction, replicating human behavior.
    • ML: Machine learning allows software to learn and recognize patterns based on data, enabling AI to develop new response models without individual programming.
    • OCR and ICR: These technologies process digital files for character and symbol recognition, enhancing search, editing, and sharing of digital content.
    • Big Data: Known for processing, analyzing, and extracting information to improve business strategies, solve problems, and support decision-making.
    • DTO: Digital Twins are accurate virtual representations of products or workflows, enabling analysis and simulation of changes before implementing them.

    Additionally, cloud technology, chatbots, and the Internet of Things are excellent examples of resources that make up hyperautomation.

    Implementing Hyperautomation

    Digital transformations happen with a good plan and established goals. The path to hyperautomation begins with auditing existing processes and workflows, along with data structure assessment.

    Mapping processes is crucial for identifying flaws and bottlenecks that present automation opportunities, contributing to continuous optimization and improvement of the activity flow.

    During planning, it is essential to set realistic goals. Therefore, establish indicators and KPIs to measure the success of each achieved objective. To realize the expected benefits and results from hyperautomation, the biggest challenge is choosing the right technologies.

    How to Choose Technological Resources

    A major recommendation is to use all-in-one solutions—platforms offering connected and natively combined resources to favor process automation.

    Neomind’s Fusion Platform, as a process, document, and indicator management platform, contributes to the true digital transformation of your company. Developed in low code, the tool is easily customizable and user-friendly, allowing users to create and edit their processes.

    With Fusion Platform, your company can overcome another challenge: resistance to change.

    The solution involves professionals in the activity flow from analysis to technology implementation.

    Neomind provides full support and adequate training for your employees to maximize the platform’s benefits. The solution also offers document management, facilitating data extraction and file search. Attached documents can be digitally signed with full legal backing. In Central Analytics, you can track process performance with real-time updated indicators, metrics, and KPIs from anywhere, anytime.

    Using technology is undoubtedly the future of organizations.

    Get the competitive edge you need, experience Fusion Platform, and move toward a more prosperous, innovative, and successful future.

  • Operational efficiency: what is it and what is its importance

    Operational efficiency: what is it and what is its importance

    Operational efficiency: what it is and how important it is

    If someone asks you what the major goals of a company are, there is no doubt that at some point you will be talking about operational efficiency.

    It may not necessarily be considering these two words. But it will for sure be something related to having more and better results with fewer costs.

    Indiscriminate cost-cutting, however, such as reducing investments and manpower, can have the opposite effect. In other words, although it may seem so, this is not always the most appropriate way to improve results.

    In fact, analyzing, reviewing, or remodeling internal processes, following their evolution over time, that’s what results in better outcomes. This is what focusing on operational efficiency means.

    Defining operational efficiency

    Operational efficiency, in a very practical way, is about finding the best output in operational processes. In this sense, it means being more competent and productive by considerably reducing errors and failures.

    In a business environment, operational efficiency is directly linked to better use of resources, avoiding all kinds of waste.

    Still, in this environment, efficiency is about how workers are employing their time and efforts. Likewise, it analyzes where the money is being invested.

    In fact, operational efficiency means producing or offering services at the lowest possible cost, without reducing or compromising the quality of what will be delivered to the customer.

    Would you be surprised if we said that great results can be achieved with little investment?

    Operational efficiency can be achieved by analyzing and improving your teams and process management. In fact, great outcomes are achieved with a detailed analysis and reorganization of your workflow.

    But how do you know if it is time to invest in operational efficiency?

    How to measure operational efficiency

    In fact, there is no right time to measure operational efficiency. This concern and analysis must be constant.

    In this sense, to measure results, it is necessary to have a meaningful metric able to calculate the degree of operational efficiency. So, the most practical way is to identify the value of inputs and outputs.

    So, list all the costs of your production (resources, labor, among others), and the revenue (production volume, revenue, product quality) generated by your products or services.

    This way, operational efficiency will be the value obtained by dividing the total expenses by the total revenue. If you want the value in percentage, multiply the result by 100.

    In short, the lower the final result, the better. It may seem counterintuitive, but the lower the rate, the greater the operational efficiency and sustainability of the enterprise.

    Thus, the better the operational efficiency is, the lower the costs to generate the same or more revenue.

    Of course, this ratio must be measured periodically, generating a better perception of how your business is evolving.

    Therefore, whenever there are modifications in the processes, after a certain period, recalculate the efficiency rate to ensure the effectiveness of these changes.

    Why I should care about operational efficiency

    Companies that seek a successful story as healthy and continuous enterprises need to worry about improving operational efficiency, so they can save resources and increase performance.

    In addition, companies that investigate and improve their processes achieve numerous benefits, including:

    • Cost reduction;
    • Savings in the short, medium, and long terms;
    • Waste reduction;
    • Increased productivity;
    • Prevention of errors;
    • Standardization;
    • Improved communication.

    Actions to increase operational efficiency

    In summary, improving operational efficiency implicates identifying the expenses that can be avoided, and how to replace them to improve processes.

    In this regard, an in-depth analysis will be required to determine the problems’ root causes.  It may sound complex, but some practical actions can help with that:

    Set objectives and goals

    Before thinking about operational efficiency itself, consider analyzing in detail how you are performing currently and what results you want to achieve in the future.

    By doing so, everything will be planned with well-stated goals and objectives in mind. Efficiency will be a factor in drawing up the action plan focused on achieving specific, measurable, and attainable goals.

    Map the processes

    Process mapping allows you to understand and provides transparency as to how tasks are executed.

    In fact, it makes it possible to observe the strengths, failures, and bottlenecks that cause inefficiency. Moreover, monitoring how activities are performed makes it easier for you to identify where the costs or unnecessary expenses are.

    With this analysis and understanding, a new and better way of executing them is enabled.

    Remodeling

    Mapping provides documentation so that, once flaws were identified, new methods to optimize results can be planned.

    In this sense, redesign consists in recreating the activity flow in a way that is more consistent and efficient for your business.

    Obviously, restructuring with standardization does not have to be executed in its entirety; you can start tackling one problem at a time.

    Standardization

    When considering redesigning processes, think about their standardization. Standardization makes sure that processes are always executed in the same way.

    In this sense, conducting frequent audits ensures that processes are actually being performed as mapped and described.

    Following-up results and continuous improvement

    It is completely normal for operational efficiency to change over time. New costs may arise, as well as new process improvement strategies. So always analyze the results you got to see if they match your business expectations.

    BPMS tools, which enable automation, usually generate efficiency reports to track your performance.

    Likewise, continuous process improvement is something that should be encouraged and always present within your company.

    Investing in technology

    As we mentioned, reducing investments is not always what will bring more operational efficiency.

    Investing in technology, especially when it comes to process automation, allows you to create more efficient and transparent process flows.

    In fact, despite the initial investment cost, new technologies are capable of bringing great returns over time. You can even calculate the cost of acquiring a process automation tool with our free calculator.

    Adopting a BPMS tool allows you to automate processes by favoring process and document management. In addition, advanced platforms, such as Fusion, provide several reports for analysis and process evolution and performance monitoring.

    Fusion Platform can literally transform your company, bringing the results you’ve always wanted, favoring an increase in operational efficiency.

    Try Fusion Platform free for 15 days, or talk to one of our consultants.

    Do you have any questions? Use the comments field and write to us!

  • What is the cost of process automation and how to prove its value?

    What is the cost of process automation and how to prove its value?

    It’s no news that companies seek to optimize their time in order to obtain better results. However, have you ever wondered about the number of times that your business processes have been interrupted to find information? Every minute spent by an employee to perform a manual task that could otherwise be automated ends up being a loss for your company.

    One of the best-known resources to help improve these situations is process automation. However, the costs that this culture change (process-oriented) brings usually comes to mind when we think about the subject.

    What is the cost of process automation?

    To think about automation costs we must keep the following questions in mind:

    • What does your company want to automate (which processes, departments…)?
    • The tools to be acquired to automate these processes;
    • The number of licenses required to use the software;
    • Services related to hiring, such as licensing, consulting, and maintenance SLA, among others…

    From this information, you can estimate the cost of investing in process automation. To help you measure it, check out this process automation project calculator.

    The next step is to weigh it against the benefits to prove the value of process automation.

    How to prove the value of process automation?

    We know that automating business processes brings costs. On the other hand, though, it is directly responsible for reducing them. Because process automation reduces the time needed to perform tasks, and consequently reduces the effort and cost needed to complete them. In other words, automation allows you to accomplish more with fewer resources.

    Moreover, manual daily tasks are tiring, and because they are done by humans, they are prone to errors. Errors that take time to fix, and cost your organization more money.

    Thus, automating processes is also an excellent way to reduce the chance of routine failures.

    Besides cost reduction, investing in process automation brings benefits such as:

    • The order of the activities is maintained and regulated by the BPMS;
    • The completion of the planned activities is guaranteed;
    • Guarantee of the necessary conditions for concluding each activity;
    • Control of responsibility chains (decision-making competencies);
    • Control of roles and responsibilities;
    • Standardization of the product/service;

    In conclusion

    From the moment your business starts counting on process automation, your customer’s satisfaction only tends to increase. With more agility in process management, employees can focus exclusively on essential activities. This further guarantees customer satisfaction, and they will consequently purchase your product/service again. They’ll even recommend it.

    Therefore, in a context where there is a constant search for customer’s success, the adoption will end up being an assertive long-term investment.

    Try Fusion Platform for 15 days for free, the complete solution for process automation

    If you still have doubts about how much your company needs to invest to have all the benefits that a BPMS offers, contact our consultants, or schedule a presentation.

  • The Importance of Digital Transformation in Construction

    The Importance of Digital Transformation in Construction

    Digital Transformation in Civil Construction: how technology is the sector’s ally

    Digital transformation in the construction industry is not just about technological innovations through software. Rather, it’s about building a culture around a series of customs employed in the professionals’ day-to-day lives.

    In this sense, it addresses all those involved such as workers, foremen, to the engineers who manage the operation of a construction site.

    The implementation of digital transformation in construction requires a lot of maturity from the organization. In this way, it enables the entry of new ideas so that the entire operation is executed in the most dynamic, accurate, and optimized way.

    For this transformation to be done in the right way, it is necessary to understand some issues that enable its flawless synchronization with the digital world.

    After all, what are these topics that encompass Digital Transformation?

    1 – Agility

    It is possible to guarantee agility with the use of software to manage civil construction business rules.

    It reduces the time lost in activities that used to be done through manual work.

    This time optimization was the focus of an Autodesk study which showed that 35% of construction management time is spent on activities that do not add significant value. In other words, this represents an average of 14 hours per week.

    In addition, the same analysis showed that 13% of the time is spent looking for data or information about current processes. That is, approximately 5 hours a week just for information gathering.

    With digital transformation in civil construction, it is possible to manage all this in an optimized way. In this sense, there is a gain of time for the execution of services and projects.

    2 – Organization

    There are several ways to apply digital transformation to the construction industry, and one of them is to opt for paperless management software.

    With this, it is possible to take care of documents, files, projects, and signatures in an interactive way, on a single platform.

    So, there is no longer any need or concern about wasting time handling a multitude of papers.

    All data collected by a technological solution can be stored in the cloud. Thus, it is accessible to a variety of devices, in a practical, fast, and organized manner.

    3 – Predictability

    Depending on the tool you choose to assist in this digital transformation process you may have access to Analytics. This functionality is about pointing out data from the processes in progress and in real time.

    In this sense, this feature is very important to analyze the behavior of certain actions, enabling more accurate and precise decision-making.

    In addition, the tool makes it possible to verify and predict likely problems or inconsistencies by enabling detailed graphs.

    In the construction industry, the possibilities for applying digital transformation innovations are endless. In fact, it is very important that the construction manager has access to data. This makes the application of knowledge faster and more useful for the completion of a project.

    4 – Savings

    All these factors are important to justify the importance of digital transformation in the construction industry since as in other industries and organizations, time is money.

    In fact, process automation software optimizes time. In addition to standardizing the way tasks are performed, there is greater organization and resource savings.

    In this sense, you have control of all the stages of the processes performed by your organization. In other words, you are always one step ahead and can plan ahead in case there is a problem.

    Furthermore, even decision-making becomes a time saver. After all, with access to reports and real data, defining a strategy or choosing a certain alternative becomes much faster and more practical. 

    What are the challenges of adapting to Digital Transformation in Construction?

    A very common difficulty faced in digital transformation in the construction industry is the closed mind of organizations’ managers.

    In fact, this branch has greater difficulty in “submitting” to novelties. After all, it is an old industry with many dogmas and beliefs regarding the way tasks should be performed and information gathered.

    Therefore, the ideal is for managers to be open to new ideas, enabling the admission of a new culture. By that, one deconstructs old ideas that do not meet the current requirements in terms of technology.

    In addition, digital transformation in the construction industry can provide numerous competitive advantages.

    Which tool should I use to drive Digital Transformation in Civil Construction?

    Today’s market offers several tools that help bring the digital world to any given organization.

    So, for the transformation to occur in a certain way, it will be necessary to analyze what the organization’s main business rules are. From this definition, it will be possible to analyze and carry out the remaining activities.

    Secondly, depending on the software acquired, it is possible to streamline the organization’s area of activity.

    With the Fusion Platform, it is feasible to streamline the entire Processes part (BPM), Electronic Document Management (ECM), digital signatures, Analytics, etc. In this sense, all these modules can be adapted according to your business needs.

    With Fusion, an organization’s manager has full control over the operation of its business rule in a practical and intuitive way.

    Conclusão

    Indeed, Digital Transformation can positively impact any organization in the Construction industry.

    Therefore, it is interesting to highlight the many benefits that transformation and technology platforms bring to these companies.

    Without a doubt, we are moving towards an increasingly digital world. And even old areas of activity, such as construction, need to catch up in order not to lose market share.

    So don’t be left behind, kick-start the Digital Transformation in your Civil Construction company.

    If you have any questions, just write it in the comments. Or contact our consultants.

    And, to get deeper into the subject, learn about process management and document management.

  • BPM tool: what it is and the benefits for your business

    BPM tool: what it is and the benefits for your business

    What is a BPM tool?

    A BPM tool is a very useful resource for companies that want to analyze, manage, and improve their processes. Due to its many benefits, BPM is a methodology used worldwide in businesses of different types and sizes.

    The practical application of BPM requires tools that combine technology in its favor.  For this reason, it is constantly updated and improved to meet diverse demands.

    Thus, a BPM tool is capable of managing processes using automated workflows to unify the entire company.

    In addition, they provide greater transparency regarding communication, and easy-to-analyze reports for assertive decision-making.

    As you can see from this short introduction, BPM tools are very important. So, stay on top of it and transform your processes and your business.

    Defining BPM

    BPM (Business Process Management) is an adjustable methodology with the objective of organizing, facilitating, and managing the organizational processes that exist within companies.

    In simple terms, a process is a set of activities aimed at achieving a certain goal. And, BPM standardizes the interaction among a process’ stages.

    Thus, BPM manages processes because it enables analyzing, modeling, improving, publishing, and controlling the activity flow of all departments.

    What is a BPM tool?

    A BPM tool is an intuitive system capable of providing companies with the practical management, control, automation, and improvement of their processes.

    In this sense, a BPM tool is used to measure, map, standardize, optimize, and automate a company’s processes.

    Thus, BPM tools are used so that the process management is carried out with greater practicality, precision, accessibility, and security. It is also capable of improving your company’s performance and competitive differential.

    For this reason, many enterprises opt to use technology-enabled BPM tools. That is, with software that allows a better application of the BPM methodology.

    In fact, since there is a great diversity of BPM software available, it is necessary to understand your demands in order to choose the platform that will best meet them.

    Process Management Categories

    As you can see, BPM is very broad and may involve the use of several tools. Therefore, some theories categorize management:

    System-focused: here BPM focuses on processes involving workflow that operate without much human intervention. Usually, processes are automated in systems.

    Human-focused: here the BPM tool focuses on creating features to improve human interaction, such as a designed user interface, alerts, and notifications.

    Document-focused: This covers everything about processes such as formatting, signing, and verifying contracts.

    Obviously, the most advanced and up-to-date BPM tools are able to absorb and solve all of these demand categories in a unified way. In other words, with a single software, for example, the company has notification customization, electronic signature, and task automation.

    What is the importance of managing a process?

    Process management is important for the company’s success since its processes are designed with structured steps to produce consistent results.

    Because of this, business process management makes it possible to predict results and mitigate risks. In addition, it makes enables you to see the weak links, bottlenecks, and failures that hinder the final results.

    Consequently, when a process is poorly designed or managed, it leads to inefficiency, and impacts negatively the entire corporate ecosystem.

    A BPM tool, among other advantages, allows the company to have its operations standardized, directing the focus to its true core business.

    In addition, innovations may be added as the business advances, without compromising the current operation.

    The benefits of a BPM tool

    Undoubtedly, adopting a BPM tool brings many advantages. When processes are well-designed and detailed, their execution becomes more efficient, productive, and organized, contributing to overall better results and customer satisfaction.

    BPM helps companies to offer more efficient products or services at a lower cost. In addition, when the approach is automation-oriented, they can adapt to changes faster.

    Other benefits that BPM tools offers to organizations include:

    • Issue detection and error reduction;
    • The monitoring of processes with reports on productivity and procedures;
    • Expenses and waste reduction;
    • More data security, with extra protection for documents and information;
    • Process automation;
    • Increase in performance, productivity, and efficiency.

    Features and capabilities of a BPM software tool

    Platforms that use BPM tools serve to manage business processes. Therefore, among several features, they are capable of:

    • Building forms to collect, display, and analyze relevant data and information;
    • Automate workflow by assigning tasks, setting deadlines, rules, and permissions;
    • Customize notifications and alerts, allowing you to track task status;
    • Create and edit electronic forms to streamline processes and improve information accuracy;
    • Offering low-code platforms with a simple design that allows you to drag and drop items according to user preferences or internal needs;
    • Accessing control and mobility;
    • Integrating with other software that the organization already adopts;
    • Reporting and analysing metrics and process results;
    • Monitoring activity and featuring dashboards.

    With these and other features, a BPM tool is capable of positively influencing business productivity. Especially when considering usability, support, functionality, customization and integration capabilities.

    BPM tool focused on the future

    Business process management is moving towards an increasingly technological, dynamic, and practical approach. In this sense, BPM tools are being adapted so that more internal company users can identify, implement, and evaluate new ways to carry out their processes.

    In addition, there is a rapid growth in intelligent automation, incorporating artificial intelligence, RPA, and machine learning to improve workflows.

    Another point is the inclusion of BPM in business applications, adaptive process management, and interactive modeling. All these features make process automation more flexible and optimized.

    In short, a BPM tool is a resource capable of generating competitive differentials for your business.

    Is your company able to manage business processes well? Tell us, here in the comments, what it is like to use a BPM tool for you.

    In case you still don’t have the benefits of a BPM tool, let us know too. Or, talk to one of our consultants.

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