Next: 5 Application to RASSP Up: Appnotes Index Previous:3 Methodology

Process Technology Appnote

4.0 Tools

Process modeling and capture tools capture the user's and domain expert's knowledge into a process model. Tools define process, process steps, and corresponding objects involved in the process. Examples are Prosim from KBSI and DesignIDEF from Metasoft.

Simulation and analysis tools allow users to simulate and analyze captured process. High-end simulation tools allow complex process situations, which are dynamic and probabilistic, to be modeled and analyzed for cycle time, value-added costs, resource utilization, capacity, etc. Simulation tools also provide what-if analysis. Examples are WITNESS from Lanner, Promodel from Promodel, and EasyABC from ABC Technologies.

Workflow tools provides capabilities to assist users with their work processes by providing visual guidance through the process, launching the appropriate applications for the process steps, providing appropriate data-sets needed to perform work, monitoring process status, and tracking work history and metrics. Design tools to be used in the process are encapsulated with the data items they use. Workflow tools launch the right tools for the process step, coordinate with the data management engine to access the appropriate data items, and presents these items to the users for performance of work or restore these items on completion of the work. The workflow model captures:

• Process steps
• Their precedence relationships
• The personnel roles authorized/required to perform work
  • The information objects involved (created, used, modified, destroyed, etc.) in the process step
• The tools to be launched or controlled at each step.

Workflow tool examples are Design Methodology Manager (DMM) from Intergraph, WorkXpert from Mentor,and KI Shell from Concentus Technology Corporation.

Finite capacity scheduling tools enable users to schedule work on a tactical basis based on process simulations and actual resources available. These tools allow what-if analysis for different scheduling strategies to help determine the cost of changes. Examples are Rhythm from i2.

Project planning tools enable users to plan and manage projects, and they enable high-level task scheduling. Examples are MS Project from Microsoft. Interaction with workflow managers is also supported by project planning tools - enabling synchronization of the management and execution aspects of the projects.