A framework for classifying interorganizational workflow-controlled business processes focusing on quality management

In this paper, a framework for the classification of interorganizational business processes is presented. It focuses on workflow technology which is used to implement intercompany quality management (QM). The workflow management system (WMS) is embedded in an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. The framework consists of six components: the business area(s) concerned, the relevant workflow technology, the benefits of the scenario, QM agreements, QM operations, and QM documents. It is supposed to provide support for decision-makers within enterprises who are about to introduce intercompany workflow management based on the company´s ERP system without neglecting interorganizational QM. In order to illustrate the practicability of the framework, it is finally applied to three typical intercompany scenarios which are available in the SAP R/3 system.