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Business Process Modeling, Analysis, and Improvement
SkillUp

Business Process Modeling, Analysis, and Improvement

Daniel C. Yeomans
SkillUp

Instructors: Daniel C. Yeomans

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

1 week to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

1 week to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Build job-ready skills in business process modeling, Lean, Six Sigma, and systems thinking to excel in business analysis and process management roles

  • Develop and interpret process models and maps that represent current and desired states, enabling better communication and decision making

  • Analyze processes to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and improvement opportunities using mapping, narratives, and analytical frameworks

  • Integrate systems thinking, Lean, Six Sigma, and AI-enabled methods to design, implement, and sustain optimized processes with measurable impact

Details to know

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Recently updated!

December 2025

Assessments

13 assignments

Taught in English

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This course is part of the IBM Systems Analyst Professional Certificate
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Professional Certificate.
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There are 5 modules in this course

This module introduces the foundations of business process modeling, including core concepts, frameworks, and techniques for capturing current and future states. You will explore what process models are, why they matter, and how they help organizations make better decisions and improve performance. You will examine frameworks and modeling approaches at both high and detailed levels, gaining awareness of tools such as Entity Relationship Diagrams (ERDs), Data Flow Diagrams (DFDs), flowcharts, swim lane diagrams, and BPMN. The module also covers use cases, scenarios, and the connection between process models and stakeholder perspectives, ensuring you can align technical methods with real-world business needs. Through labs and practice activities, you will apply a structured process modeling checklist, analyze business gaps, and create diagrams that clarify how work is (and should be) performed.

What's included

8 videos2 readings3 assignments7 plugins

This module introduces practical mapping methods used to visualize and analyze how work is performed to uncover inefficiencies and prepare for process improvement work. You will explore different types of process maps—including basic flowcharts, cross-functional diagrams, and top-down views—and learn when and how to apply each. The module introduces best practices for using BPMN and swim lane diagrams to clarify roles and responsibilities, along with techniques for handling complex processes through decomposition. You will also examine process narratives, SIPOC analysis, and the FURPS framework as complementary tools for capturing requirements, identifying inefficiencies, and communicating with stakeholders. Hands-on labs and activities reinforce learning by allowing you to create maps, conduct SIPOC interviews, and analyze customer scenarios that highlight critical performance gaps.

What's included

5 videos1 reading3 assignments6 plugins

This module focuses on methods for improving, optimizing, and transforming business processes and the role of AI in accelerating these initiatives. You will learn about different types of improvement efforts, such as process optimization, automation, and reengineering, and understand the responsibilities of process owners and improvement frameworks. The module also introduces prioritization techniques like MoSCoW and Kano to help evaluate which improvements deliver the most value. The module also focuses on how generative AI can support process analysis and improvement. You will identify how AI assists in documentation, visualization, and cost analysis, and practice using AI prompts to uncover insights in real-world scenarios. Hands-on labs and activities enable you to apply both traditional and AI-enhanced approaches to identifying inefficiencies and recommending improvements.

What's included

7 videos1 reading3 assignments5 plugins

This module introduces systems thinking, Lean principles, and Six Sigma fundamentals as complementary approaches to the process improvement methods explored in earlier modules. You will discover how systems thinking reveals interconnections across processes, prevents sub-optimization, and supports the design of holistic, organization-wide solutions. You will gain guidance on planning, implementing, and sustaining improvements through structured change management and governance practices. The module focuses on Lean and Six Sigma as proven frameworks for driving efficiency and quality. You will learn about Lean’s philosophy of value creation and waste elimination, practice identifying the eight common wastes, and use value stream mapping to visualize workflow improvements. Six Sigma tools such as DMAIC and statistical process control are introduced to provide structured, data-driven approaches to solving problems and maintaining stability.

What's included

10 videos1 reading3 assignments7 plugins

The final module gives you an opportunity to apply what you have learned throughout the course in a project. You will develop a process model and supporting narrative based on a real-world use case, integrating techniques from process modeling, mapping, improvement, and systems thinking. The module also includes a final quiz to assess knowledge gained across the course. In addition, the module highlights key takeaways, provides a glossary of terms, acknowledges contributors, and outlines potential next steps, including industry-recognized certifications (such as CompTIA Project+, ASQ CQIA, and AIGPE Process Mapping Specialist) to continue professional development.

What's included

1 video2 readings1 assignment1 app item3 plugins

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Instructors

Daniel C. Yeomans
SkillUp
31 Courses164,806 learners
SkillUp
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