BPR (business process redesign) and systems analysis and design: making the case for integration

The question of what role business process redesign (BPR) should play in information systems development is one that draws strong opinions on either side of the issue. Some argue that BPR is absolutely necessary in forging a synergy between organizational structure, people, technology, and tasks. However, consultation and application development continue today without sufficient workflow analysis, as if BPR was irrelevant altogether. This article examines major BPR theories and the similarities and differences between BPR and information systems development and engages in a discussion of the merits of including BPR in any information systems development project.