Specifying Processes: Application to Electrical Power Distribution

Problem statement: This study deals with the problem of how to specify processes. Many process specification methodologies have been determined to be incomplete; for example, ISO 9000:2005 defines process as transforming media inputs into outputs. Nevertheless, the author of the Quality Systems Handbook, declares that such a definition is incomplete because processes create results and not necessarily by transforming inputs. Still, it is not clear what description of process can embed transformation of input to output or include creation that leads to results. Approach: This problem is important because process specification is an essential component in building projects utilized in such tasks as scheduling, planning, production, management, work flow and reengineering. Results: We solve the problem by “opening” the black box in the input-transformation-output model. This action uncovers many possible sources and destinations related to input and output, such as the disappearance, storage and copying of input. It is possible to reject input and also to block output from leaving the process. The approach is based on a conceptual framework for process specification of all generic phases that make up any process and embraces input, transformation, creation and output. The study applies the method in the field of electrical power distribution systems. Conclusion: We conclude that the results demonstrate a viable specification method that can be adopted for different types of processes.