Process modeling describes workflows in a structured way before they are automated. The goal: the team agrees on what happens today and what should change.

Typical elements of a model:

• individual work steps and their sequence
• decision rules (approval required above what amount?)
• roles and responsibilities
• dependencies on other departments or systems

A visual representation (flowchart, swimlane) is enough to start. Chasing perfection often blocks the next step.

Modeling answers questions that stay implicit in daily work: Who approves? What happens on rejection? What data does the next step need?

Only after this does workflow in ERP pay off. Automating without a model just digitalizes existing chaos. For the distinction from strategic optimization, see BPM vs. workflow.

Good pilot processes are recurring, multi-step, and clearly rule-based. Quote approval or invoice checking are typical starting points. Expand after the pilot, rather than modeling everything up front.

For larger initiatives, a structured requirements specification provides the basis for scope and ROI before the big project.