The characterisation and validation of a framework for process based change in SMEs

This paper reports on the progress of an Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) sponsored project to produce a methodology for the re-engineering of business processes specifically for SMEs. The paper focuses on the results of case-based and action research which has been undertaken in an attempt to explain the nature and characteristics of process based change in this context. The methodology emerging from the work has been specifically designed to encourage an understanding of the conceptual basis of process-based change. This has been achieved using case-based learning facilitated by an associated multimedia tool. The paper describes the development and testing of the methodology.