In the article, an extension of process modeling languages is designed and realized as a prototype. With it, the semantics of labels for process model elements formulated in natural language can be represented by terms from a formal ontology. This formalization of model element-related semantics can eliminate the scope for interpretation connected with the use of natural language and improve query functionalities in modeling tools. In addition, new possibilities for the validation of process models are provided through the use of rules in combination with ontologies.

This paper describes the foundations of smart business process management and serves as an editorial to the corresponding special issue.

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Purpose Patterns have proven to be useful for documenting general reusable solutions to a commonly occurring problem. In recent years, several different business process management (BPM)-related patterns have been published. Despite the large number of publications on this subject, there is no work that provides a comprehensive overview and categorization of the published business process model patterns. The purpose of this paper is to close this gap by providing a taxonomy of patterns as well as a classification of 89 research works. Design/methodology/approach The authors analyzed 280 research articles following a structured iterative procedure inspired by the method for taxonomy development from Nickerson et al. (2013). Using deductive and inductive reasoning processes embedded in concurrent as well as joint research activities, the authors created a taxonomy of patterns as well as a classification of 89 research works. Findings In general, the findings extend the current understanding of BPM patterns. The authors identify pattern categories that are highly populated with research works as well as categories that have received far less attention such as risk and security, the ecological perspective and process architecture. Further, the analysis shows that there is not yet an overarching pattern language for business process model patterns. The insights can be used as starting point for developing such a pattern language. Originality/value Up to now, no comprehensive pattern taxonomy and research classification exists. The taxonomy and classification are useful for searching pattern works which is also supported by an accompanying website complementing the work. In regard to future research and publications on patterns, the authors derive recommendations regarding the content and structure of pattern publications.

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Information can be declared as fundamental component for the performance of service processes.Especially for the service provision of Technical Customer Services (TCS), information is a key driver for productivity. Thereto, mobile Information Systems (IS) are a critical success factor to provide the TCS with needed information for a high-quality service delivery at the right time, at the right place and in an adequate way. Before such IS can be designed purposefully, existing information needs have to be identified first. Therefore, we investigate information needs for mobile TCS in a case study of the machinery and plant engineering industry. The resulting consolidated catalogue of information needs gives an overview of needed information of the TCS during service processes and can thus serve as a starting point for the specification of mobile TCS support systems.

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