There are many facts to consider when opting for a Business Process Management (BPM) in the cloud. In this article, we will point out the elements to consider.
Many companies rely on BPM tools in the cloud, so why not your business? A question often heard among decision makers, but this is not always a reality. Using a non-cloud BPM can also be a wise decision.
For that, the devil is always in the details. In this case, it usually begins by asking why the cloud is an interesting option for BPM. If this turns out to be the case, then determine the role the cloud should play in your strategy.
Cloud vs BPM in the Cloud
Above all, it is necessary to understand that cloud and BPM in the cloud have two different approaches. Cloud is a hosting model that places applications, data, maintenance and other operations in the hands of a provider and its servers. On the other hand, the BPM automates the movement of information in the enterprise, according to pre-defined business rules. The BPM Cloud, therefore, is about hosting the solution – or certain components.
A BPM in the cloud is, therefore, one thing and migrating to the cloud is another. However, a decision made on one side will have an impact on the other.
The good news is that the cloud can play a major role in valuing the company’s BPM.
Interoperability
One of the key points of the BPM is its ability to interconnect silo applications. In some cases, the application simply cannot be integrated with others. Most of the time, this integration is possible but it has a high cost that does not encourage investment. The silos therefore persist.
Because it is efficient for moving data, the BPM can now be used as an overlay that harvests information from one system to another for processing and then returns it once the operation is complete. The BPM thus allows the systems to interoperate, even if initially their integration is not formalized.
And this is especially true with the BPM Cloud.
Cloud or not cloud?
BPM costs are usually related to the need to program, test and maintain different applications. This can also include installing and configuring new BPM modules to ensure they work well with the existing one.
Fortunately, these operations are often at the heart of BPM’s cloud services. The strength of the proposal, brought to the Cloud, is precise to relieve you of these tasks. The difficulty lies in the choice of these services, and especially in your needs in this area.
In the end, this is like an outsourcing decision. In other words, is it possible to achieve your goals with your own infrastructure and resources, or should you outsource it to a third party?
There is no right or wrong answer. On the other hand, it is necessary to evaluate different facts:
- The budget, both in terms of technological expenses and human resources
- Time to devote to the project
- The degree of openness of the infrastructure in place – which could be disturbing in terms of interoperability
- Usability. An important point if the solution targets multiple user populations.
Understanding all the variables associated with this decision makes it possible to better prepare to interact with your employees and discuss their ability to better use a Cloud BPM in the company.
