Towards Applying Normalized Systems Theory Implications to Enterprise Process Reference Models

The analysis phase in the overall development life cycle of information systems has frequently proved to be a difficult assignment as the quality of the work heavily depends on the skills, experience and domain knowledge of the analyst. As a consequence, analysis patterns and reference models have been introduced in the past as a means to consolidate best-practices in conceptual modeling (often incorporating specific domain knowledge) and guiding analysts in their modeling efforts. However, the actual evaluation of reference models or analysis patterns available remains a challenging issue. Here, the evolvability or flexibility of the considered frameworks seems to be a legitimate evaluation criterion. Hence, in this paper, the well-known SAP Reference Model framework is analyzed with regard to its adherence to Normalized Systems (NS) theory design principles as this theory specifically focuses on the evolvability of modular structures such as information systems and business processes. It is concluded that it is feasible to employ the NS theory to evaluate such reference models from an evolvability point of view and distinguish both aspects and indications towards conformance with NS theory, as well as indications of possible violations regarding its principles.