Introduction

The goal of this chapter is to give an overview of the work at hand: it introduces Business Process Standardization (BPS), explains the motivation of the research topic, and formulates research questions to be answered. Then, it explains the methodology used, provides a definition of key terms, and gives an overview of the structure of the book. Finally, it summarizes the main findings of the book.

Model Development and Hypotheses

In this chapter—based on the multi-theoretical framework developed in the previous chapter—three research models around BPS are derived in subsections 3.1 to 3.3. These research models shed light on the consequences/value dimensions of BPS (i.e. analyze the impact of BPS on business process performance and its sub-dimensions time, cost, and quality, as well as on business process flexibility).1 In a first step, the chapter introduces the three research models which are used and evaluated throughout the remainder of this book. In a second step, the chapter introduces the individual constructs used in the three research models. Finally, Section 3 establishes links between the constructs and derives a set of research hypotheses per model.2

Deriving a Multi-Theoretical Framework for BPS Research

When it comes to developing theoretical foundations for such complex things as business process standardization or business process management researchers agree that no single theory is capable of explaining all phenomena that occur. The authors agree with that perspective and propose a multi-theoretical framework for BPS research by combining the Resource-Based View (RBV) of the firm with Dynamic Capabilities (DC) theory and some selected dynamic capabilities to conceptualize the specific requirements of BPS. Hence, the goal of this chapter is to lay out solid theoretical foundations for research on BPS. In a first step, the authors define the research context. Then several established theoretical lenses are presented, and finally, they are combined into a multi-theoretical framework for BPS research.

Evaluation of BPS and its Impact

The goal of this chapter is a qualitative analysis of the research models and the hypotheses developed in Chapter 4. Firstly, the case study research method, for both single and multiple case study research, is introduced. Then, the four case studies conducted are presented in detail, including the respective case background, the BPS initiative, as well as reflections on the respective BPS value creation. Finally, a cross-case analysis is presented in which the authors discuss the cases against the background of the research models developed in Chapter 4 and corroborate, respectively falsify the research hypotheses.

State of the Art of BPS Research

The goal of this chapter is to provide an overview of the state of the art of BPS research, including a reflection on approaches to define BPS, an overview of drivers/antecedents, and consequences/value dimensions of BPS.1

Discussion of Findings

The goal of this chapter is to discuss the findings of the research effort at hand. After a summary of the findings, both the quantitative and qualitative results are discussed. Then the implications of the findings for both theory and practice are presented. Finally, potential limitations to the research are identified and put into perspective.

Evaluation of BPS and Its Impact

The goal of this chapter is a quantitative analysis of the research models and the research hypotheses developed in Chapter 4. In a first step, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using the Partial Least Squares (PLS) methodology as applied in this research and a set of quality criteria to evaluate PLS models are introduced. Then, the surveys conducted—“Recruiting Trends 2007 and 2009”—are presented with details on the process in focus, the construct operationalizations used, as well as the data collection and evaluation carried out. Finally, the results of the survey are presented.

Further BPS Research

The goal of this chapter is to offer a “roadmap” for further research around BPS and the actual BPS value creation. Along five distinct directions—and partly already based on some initial findings from research in progress—paths for further research are suggested.