Business process improvement using axiomatic design and object-process methodology

Abstract

This thesis introduces AD-OPM BPI, which is a new method of conducting business process improvement using both Axiomatic Design and Object-Process Methodology. The premise underlying the method is that modern process improvement techniques boast large efficiency gains, but fail to address the broader process system. Through first using Axiomatic Design to map and optimize the process system, broader-inefficiencies will be addressed before they constrain individual processes. Then Object-Process Methodology is conducted for process-specific optimization by utilizing modern system architecture layering principles to identify nonvalue-adding entities and improve them through deletion or simplification. A case study at a large aerospace manufacturing company demonstrates the method in practical application. Results suggest that application is better suited to new or small-scale systems due to the challenge of applying Axiomatic Design to pre-existing large scale systems. Despite this limitation, Object-Process Methodology remains a viable option for business process improvement, whether or not it is coupled with Axiomatic Design in AD-OPM BPI.