I am working as an R&D Program Manager for Natural at Software AG. In this role I plan and control various development projects of any size and scope. Depending on the project, different methodologies apply. The development process implementing the methodologies used changed over time, especially after Software AG acquired webMethods and I expect even more changes as the integration with IDS Scheer progresses. I have never used a process modelling product before and I started using ARISalign, and later on ARIS Express, to document the development process that I actively participate in. It is really nice to be able to involve colleagues on ARISalign as they helped me to understand parts of the process that I am not deeply involved in.
A first result using ARISalign showed some bottlenecks in our development process where the process progress depends on the availability of specific people. These bottlenecks are being addressed now and this helps to prevent problems with the overall process.
A much simpler example is given in the EP process (Enhancement Proposal process)
http://beta.arisalign.com/Projects/Dashboard?wmp_tc=3641&wmp_rt=render&wmp3751.pid=101337
This process is much simpler as there is not much parallel activity going on. However looking at this simple example provides a good basic understanding what can be done with ARISalign. Before designing the process I used the whiteboard to structure the process stages and activities. I switched to the joint white board and process editor view. Via drag and drop I took the stages and activities to the process model and connected them showing the workflow.
I must say I like the tool and the capability to discuss the process flow with all involved people.
