KPM: Knowledge-Based Process Management

In this paper, we describe KPMTM, a knowledge-based environment for process design, management, and execution that integrates aspects of process modeling, workflow, and project management. KPM is targeted specifically to domains such as engineering design in which the dynamic and uncertain nature of the processes present management challenges that are unmet by traditional workflow systems. KPM applies various AI technologies, including dynamic heuristic scheduling and rescheduling throughout process execution, to these complex management situations as an alternative to current manual approaches. KPM is designed to balance the need for flexibility and reactivity in process execution with the need for understandability, accountability and proactive decision making required by human managers. KPM’s goal is not to fully automate the management of design processes or to limit the options available to managers. Instead, it provides designers with the ability to specify and incrementally refine processes. It provides designers and managers with timely information about what is happening and why and about what might be expected to happen in the future. Finally, it automates the routine aspects of process execution, freeing designers and managers alike to do the real work of the business.