The time when software developers were only concerned about software development is over. Today, software developers not only need to know what the business side is doing, they must also understand it and be able to put it in the context of their current project.
That's where business process management (BPM) comes in. When done correctly, BPM results in smooth workflows, on-time delivery and happier employees. But it's not that easy to roll out the BPM lifecycle, particularly in companies with existing Agile or DevOps deployments. A move to BPM can be seen as "one more thing to deal with," rather than a step in the right direction. So the challenge is clear.
In the DevOps world, where -- in theory, at least -- Dev and Ops work seamlessly together, BPM offers a way to bring everyone closer, including the business side. Some would say that the BPM lifecycle is a prerequisite for DevOps 2.0, or what some call BizDevOps. It's certainly true that a strong BPM foundation sets the stage for stronger teams, and that matters very much to companies attempting to roll out DevOps. BPM can give all groups common language and processes and reference points to aid in decision-making.
For companies trying to take DevOps to the next level -- digital transformation -- BPM is not an option. To transform an organization requires a steady hand, access to details and processes and a way to keep track of it all. If the BPM lifecycle is rolled out slowly and thoughtfully with an eye toward organization-wide changes, it can be the backbone of digital transformation.
