Buffer external information and subscribe to updates
Instead of requesting information from an external source, buffer it and subscribe to updates
Reijers, H., & Liman Mansar, S. (2005). Best practices in business process redesign: an overview and qualitative evaluation of successful redesign heuristics. Omega, 33(4)
Obtaining information from other parties is a major, time consuming part in many workflows. By having information directly available when it is required, throughput times may be substantially reduced. Note that this buffering is a weak form of the integration pattern. Instead of direct access to the original source of information in the integration alternative a copy is maintained.
This pattern can be compared to the caching principle microprocessors apply. Of course, the subscription fee for information updates may be rather costly. This is especially so when we consider the situation that an information source may contain far more information than is ever used. Substantial cost may also be involved with storing all the information.
Foundational free Patterns
Eliminate unnecessary activities
Determine whether activities are related to the same type of case and, if necessary, distinguish new business processes
Empower workers for more decision-making authority
If capacity is insufficient, consider increasing the available number of resources
Establish standardized interfaces
Consider a standardized interface with customers and partners
Consider whether activities may be executed in parallel
Start implementing actions that can offset or counterbalance the environmental effects generated by business processes that cannot be changed.
Consider whether it is eco-friendly to let humans work over machines
First-contact problem resolution
Establish a one-contact resolution for customer issues