Abstract
Business corporates inclusive of large, medium and small-scale entities traditionally conducts activities
based on business processes. Large multinationals have adopted various automation systems at
various levels of business units, in capturing essential business activities across the entity. These
automation systems, inclusive of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Manufacturing Execution
Systems (MES) and Plant systems has been adopted by larger corporates in executing and optimizing
business functions. These large multinationals are described as complex entities with complex
business structures inclusive of business processes. The effect of automation, escalations and other
critical variables influencing these business processes has not been effectively quantified. “Systems
thinking” adds the complexity of integrating all enterprise functions but creates a framework for
evaluating the limitations and synergies so as to optimize these processes. This research focuses on
the development and configuration of a simulation model for modelling enterprise maturity, directing
attention to process maturity relative to the turnaround time of business processes.
This research approach includes hierarchical layout and segregation of these business processes,
investigated adopting business process tools, techniques, and methodologies aligned with systems
thinking approach. A simulation framework is configured and tested adopting scenario impact
assessments based on certain key business variables aligned with associated critical constraints
conditions. Optimization framework of these business variables is adopted in presenting an integrated
case. The results prove that a simulation model potentially benefits a complex organization specific to
evaluating time taken to conduct business processes. The results indicate that interdependent
processes can be modelled together with determining impacts of multiple variables in reducing
interdependent business process time. This implies that business entities can adopt and utilize outputs
of this research to serve as a navigation tool specific to business process time when optimizing shop
floor together with top floor communications and vice versa.
M.Ing. (Engineering Management)