IAB203 Process Modelling
To view more information for this unit, select Unit Outline from the list below. Please note the teaching period for which the Unit Outline is relevant.
| Unit code: | IAB203 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Timetable | Details in HiQ, if available |
| Availabilities |
|
| CSP student contribution | $1,192 |
| Domestic tuition unit fee | $4,704 |
| International unit fee | $5,640 |
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2026, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | IAB203 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Coordinator: | Sareh Sadeghianasl | s.sadeghianasl@qut.edu.au |
Overview
This unit introduces business process management concepts: how organisations improve their processes in terms of time, cost and quality. It introduces process identification and process discovery. Furthermore, it addresses the fundamentals of process modelling: model quality, correctness issues and modelling in BPMN's collaboration and choreography diagrams. After this unit, IAB320 continues with other business process improvement steps.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of business process modelling theory, frameworks and methods.
- Critically analyse large organisational contexts to identify and define problems, and to prioritise issues.
- Create business process models for addressing complex real-world organisational problems using business process modeling languages.
- Communicate and justify business process recommendations professionally to stakeholders in written and visual formats.
- Work independently and collaborate with others to manage an deliver a project on time for a client.
Content
This unit presents a detailed introduction to the capabilities and constraints of current process modelling languages. It will start by showing how key modelling principles (e.g. abstraction, modularisation) can be applied to process modelling. Next, the focus will be on the in-depth explanation and application of process modelling languages used in practice: the Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN 2.0) - the current de-facto standard for process modelling in industry.
Finally, the topics of process identification, process discovery and applying BPM in large organisations will be dealt with. Modelling tools will be introduced in the tutorials.
In this unit you will develop specific skills in process modelling as well as general skills in abstraction, complexity management, critical thinking, team work and writing skills. Additional learning materials will be provided to you to improve understanding of all major topics. You will be given authentic scenarios and case studies for which they are expected to provide process modelling reports. They will be introduced to the key techniques for stakeholder analysis and interviews when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders. You will also learn industry standard tools and techniques for business analysis. Furthermore, you will have guest lecture(s) showcasing their best practices, providing networking and prospective career paths. This unit will help create more sustainable and cost-effective processes by reducing waste and improving resource utilisation. An industry partner will communicate with you a real problem they are facing, for which you will be asked to provide a solution as part of your assessment.
Learning Approaches
You can expect to spend 10 hours per week involved in preparing for and attending scheduled classes, preparing and completing assessment tasks as well as independent study and consolidation of your learning.
The content of the unit is delivered through pre-recorded lectures, tutorials, case studies, and the QUT Canvas site. Pre-recorded lectures cover theoretical aspects of the unit, and practical sessions provide an opportunity to solve practical exercises, based on the current week's lecture. Tutorial staff will be available to provide assistance. Formative feedback is provided during each tutorial.
The unit emphasises a “hands-on” approach to learning through the illustration of new concepts through worked examples and demonstrations. The concepts introduced are presented in business scenarios. You will work on the case studies in the tutorials. You are encouraged to work in groups.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
You can obtain feedback on your progress throughout the unit through the following mechanisms:
- ask the teaching staff for advice and assistance during the workshop sessions;
- throughout the semester, we will prepare you for the assessment and the exam through practices and quizzes
- each assignment will be returned to you before the submission of the next task with comments on your progress; and
- tutors are available during the tutorials to clarify or elaborate on the assignment content and provide constructive feedback;
Assessment
Overview
General assessment information
There are two assignments and a final exam used to assess your ability to meet the unit learning outcomes of this unit. The first assignment is individual with the second one being a group task that will be based on the material covered in the pre-recorded lectures and tutorials. The tasks will be discussed during the tutorials and/or pre-recorded lectures. This will provide you with a deeper understanding of the nature of the task. Selected supporting resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site. A detailed marking rubric will be available for the assignment. The final exam will be held during the central examination period and will assess all unit content.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Basic Modelling
The assignment will assess your understanding of the key concepts of the first part of the unit by applying your learning to real world modelling scenario/s.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Large-scale Modelling
This group assignment focuses on complex application areas of business process modelling. You will be given a real-life case study and are expected to provide a comprehensive project report detailing the steps and outcomes of the modelling project. This task will also assess your ability to work effectively in a group. You will get comprehensive feedback on this task.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Exam
Final written exam, covering all contents of the unit.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Requirements to Study
Costs
No extraordinary charges or costs are associated with the requirements for this unit.
Resources
All resource materials will be available in the unit Canvas site. Below are some recommended texts that you might like to access to support your learning in this unit.
Resource Materials
Recommended text(s)
B. Silver: BPMN Method and Style: A Levels-based Methodology for BPM Process Modeling and Improvement Using BPMN 2.0. Cody-Cassidy Press, 2009.
J. Becker, M. Kugeler, M. Rosemann (eds.): Process Management. A Guide for the Process-oriented Design of Organizations. Eds.: Springer-Verlag: Berlin et al. 2003: Chapter 3.
M. Weske: Business Process Management. Concepts, Languages, Architectures. Springer 2007: Chapters 3 - 6.
P. Harmon. Business Process Change. A Guide for Business Managers and BPM and Six Sigma Professionals. 2nd edition, Morgan Kaufman Publishers. Amsterdam, 2007: Chapters 3, 4, 9, 15,16.
R. Davies and E. Brabaender: ARIS Design Platform. Getting Started with BPM. Springer 2007: Chapter 7.
W. van der Aalst, K. van Hee: Workflow Management. Models, Methods, and Systems (2002s): Chapter 2
ter Hofstede, W. van der Aalst, M. Adams, N. Russell (eds.), Modern Business Process Automation: YAWL and its Support Environment. Springer, 2010: Chapters 1 - 3.
Reference book(s)
M. Dumas, M. La Rosa, J. Mendling, H.A. Reijers. Fundamentals of Business Process Management. Springer 2018 (second edition): Chapters 1 - 5.
You are encouraged to obtain a (digital) copy of the above textbook from the library.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no unusual health or safety risks associated with this unit.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.IN01 Bachelor of Information Technology
- Demonstrate a broad theoretical and technical knowledge of well-established and emerging IT disciplines, with in-depth knowledge in at least one specialist area aligned to multiple ICT professional roles.
Relates to: ULO1, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam - Critically analyse and conceptualise complex IT challenges and opportunities using modelling, abstraction, ideation and problem-solving to generate, evaluate and justify recommended solutions.
Relates to: ULO2, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam - Integrate and apply technical knowledge and skills to analyse, design, build, operate and maintain sustainable, secure IT systems using industry-standard tools, technologies, platforms, and processes.
Relates to: ULO3, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam - Demonstrate initiative, autonomy and personal responsibility for continuous learning, working both independently and collaboratively within multi-disciplinary teams, employing state-of-the-art IT project management methodologies to plan and manage time, resources, and risk.
Relates to: ULO5, Large-scale Modelling - Communicate professionally and effectively in written, verbal and visual formats to a diverse range of stakeholders, considering the audience and explaining complex ideas in a simple and understandable manner in a range of IT-related contexts.
Relates to: ULO4, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2026, Online
| Unit code: | IAB203 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
Overview
This unit introduces business process management concepts: how organisations improve their processes in terms of time, cost and quality. It introduces process identification and process discovery. Furthermore, it addresses the fundamentals of process modelling: model quality, correctness issues and modelling in BPMN's collaboration and choreography diagrams. After this unit, IAB320 continues with other business process improvement steps.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of business process modelling theory, frameworks and methods.
- Critically analyse large organisational contexts to identify and define problems, and to prioritise issues.
- Create business process models for addressing complex real-world organisational problems using business process modeling languages.
- Communicate and justify business process recommendations professionally to stakeholders in written and visual formats.
- Work independently and collaborate with others to manage an deliver a project on time for a client.
Content
This unit presents a detailed introduction to the capabilities and constraints of current process modelling languages. It will start by showing how key modelling principles (e.g. abstraction, modularisation) can be applied to process modelling. Next, the focus will be on the in-depth explanation and application of process modelling languages used in practice: the Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN 2.0) - the current de-facto standard for process modelling in industry.
Finally, the topics of process identification, process discovery and applying BPM in large organisations will be dealt with. Modelling tools will be introduced in the tutorials.
In this unit you will develop specific skills in process modelling as well as general skills in abstraction, complexity management, critical thinking, team work and writing skills. Additional learning materials will be provided to you to improve understanding of all major topics. You will be given authentic scenarios and case studies for which they are expected to provide process modelling reports. They will be introduced to the key techniques for stakeholder analysis and interviews when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders. You will also learn industry standard tools and techniques for business analysis. Furthermore, you will have guest lecture(s) showcasing their best practices, providing networking and prospective career paths. This unit will help create more sustainable and cost-effective processes by reducing waste and improving resource utilisation. An industry partner will communicate with you a real problem they are facing, for which you will be asked to provide a solution as part of your assessment.
Learning Approaches
You can expect to spend 10 hours per week involved in preparing for and attending scheduled classes, preparing and completing assessment tasks as well as independent study and consolidation of your learning.
The content of the unit is delivered through pre-recorded lectures, tutorials, case studies, and the QUT Canvas site. Pre-recorded lectures cover theoretical aspects of the unit, and practical sessions provide an opportunity to solve practical exercises, based on the current week's lecture. Tutorial staff will be available to provide assistance. Formative feedback is provided during each tutorial.
The unit emphasises a “hands-on” approach to learning through the illustration of new concepts through worked examples and demonstrations. The concepts introduced are presented in business scenarios. You will work on the case studies in the tutorials. You are encouraged to work in groups.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
You can obtain feedback on your progress throughout the unit through the following mechanisms:
- ask the teaching staff for advice and assistance during the workshop sessions;
- throughout the semester, we will prepare you for the assessment and the exam through practices and quizzes
- each assignment will be returned to you before the submission of the next task with comments on your progress; and
- tutors are available during the tutorials to clarify or elaborate on the assignment content and provide constructive feedback;
Assessment
Overview
General assessment information
There are two assignments and a final exam used to assess your ability to meet the unit learning outcomes of this unit. The first assignment is individual with the second one being a group task that will be based on the material covered in the pre-recorded lectures and tutorials. The tasks will be discussed during the tutorials and/or pre-recorded lectures. This will provide you with a deeper understanding of the nature of the task. Selected supporting resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site. A detailed marking rubric will be available for the assignment. The final exam will be held during the central examination period and will assess all unit content.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Basic Modelling
The assignment will assess your understanding of the key concepts of the first part of the unit by applying your learning to real world modelling scenario/s.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Large-scale Modelling
This group assignment focuses on complex application areas of business process modelling. You will be given a real-life case study and are expected to provide a comprehensive project report detailing the steps and outcomes of the modelling project. This task will also assess your ability to work effectively in a group. You will get comprehensive feedback on this task.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Exam
Final written exam, covering all contents of the unit.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Requirements to Study
Costs
No extraordinary charges or costs are associated with the requirements for this unit.
Resources
All resource materials will be available in the unit Canvas site. Below are some recommended texts that you might like to access to support your learning in this unit.
Resource Materials
Recommended text(s)
B. Silver: BPMN Method and Style: A Levels-based Methodology for BPM Process Modeling and Improvement Using BPMN 2.0. Cody-Cassidy Press, 2009.
J. Becker, M. Kugeler, M. Rosemann (eds.): Process Management. A Guide for the Process-oriented Design of Organizations. Eds.: Springer-Verlag: Berlin et al. 2003: Chapter 3.
M. Weske: Business Process Management. Concepts, Languages, Architectures. Springer 2007: Chapters 3 - 6.
P. Harmon. Business Process Change. A Guide for Business Managers and BPM and Six Sigma Professionals. 2nd edition, Morgan Kaufman Publishers. Amsterdam, 2007: Chapters 3, 4, 9, 15,16.
R. Davies and E. Brabaender: ARIS Design Platform. Getting Started with BPM. Springer 2007: Chapter 7.
W. van der Aalst, K. van Hee: Workflow Management. Models, Methods, and Systems (2002s): Chapter 2
ter Hofstede, W. van der Aalst, M. Adams, N. Russell (eds.), Modern Business Process Automation: YAWL and its Support Environment. Springer, 2010: Chapters 1 - 3.
Reference book(s)
M. Dumas, M. La Rosa, J. Mendling, H.A. Reijers. Fundamentals of Business Process Management. Springer 2018 (second edition): Chapters 1 - 5.
You are encouraged to obtain a (digital) copy of the above textbook from the library.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no unusual health or safety risks associated with this unit.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.IN01 Bachelor of Information Technology
- Demonstrate a broad theoretical and technical knowledge of well-established and emerging IT disciplines, with in-depth knowledge in at least one specialist area aligned to multiple ICT professional roles.
Relates to: ULO1, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam - Critically analyse and conceptualise complex IT challenges and opportunities using modelling, abstraction, ideation and problem-solving to generate, evaluate and justify recommended solutions.
Relates to: ULO2, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam - Integrate and apply technical knowledge and skills to analyse, design, build, operate and maintain sustainable, secure IT systems using industry-standard tools, technologies, platforms, and processes.
Relates to: ULO3, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam - Demonstrate initiative, autonomy and personal responsibility for continuous learning, working both independently and collaboratively within multi-disciplinary teams, employing state-of-the-art IT project management methodologies to plan and manage time, resources, and risk.
Relates to: ULO5, Large-scale Modelling - Communicate professionally and effectively in written, verbal and visual formats to a diverse range of stakeholders, considering the audience and explaining complex ideas in a simple and understandable manner in a range of IT-related contexts.
Relates to: ULO4, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2026, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | IAB203 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
Overview
This unit introduces business process management concepts: how organisations improve their processes in terms of time, cost and quality. It introduces process identification and process discovery. Furthermore, it addresses the fundamentals of process modelling: model quality, correctness issues and modelling in BPMN's collaboration and choreography diagrams. After this unit, IAB320 continues with other business process improvement steps.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of business process modelling theory, frameworks and methods.
- Critically analyse large organisational contexts to identify and define problems, and to prioritise issues.
- Create business process models for addressing complex real-world organisational problems using business process modeling languages.
- Communicate and justify business process recommendations professionally to stakeholders in written and visual formats.
- Work independently and collaborate with others to manage an deliver a project on time for a client.
Content
This unit presents a detailed introduction to the capabilities and constraints of current process modelling languages. It will start by showing how key modelling principles (e.g. abstraction, modularisation) can be applied to process modelling. Next, the focus will be on the in-depth explanation and application of process modelling languages used in practice: the Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN 2.0) - the current de-facto standard for process modelling in industry.
Finally, the topics of process identification, process discovery and applying BPM in large organisations will be dealt with. Modelling tools will be introduced in the tutorials.
In this unit you will develop specific skills in process modelling as well as general skills in abstraction, complexity management, critical thinking, team work and writing skills. Additional learning materials will be provided to you to improve understanding of all major topics. You will be given authentic scenarios and case studies for which they are expected to provide process modelling reports. They will be introduced to the key techniques for stakeholder analysis and interviews when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders. You will also learn industry standard tools and techniques for business analysis. Furthermore, you will have guest lecture(s) showcasing their best practices, providing networking and prospective career paths. This unit will help create more sustainable and cost-effective processes by reducing waste and improving resource utilisation. An industry partner will communicate with you a real problem they are facing, for which you will be asked to provide a solution as part of your assessment.
Learning Approaches
You can expect to spend 10 hours per week involved in preparing for and attending scheduled classes, preparing and completing assessment tasks as well as independent study and consolidation of your learning.
The content of the unit is delivered through pre-recorded lectures, tutorials, case studies, and the QUT Canvas site. Pre-recorded lectures cover theoretical aspects of the unit, and practical sessions provide an opportunity to solve practical exercises, based on the current week's lecture. Tutorial staff will be available to provide assistance. Formative feedback is provided during each tutorial.
The unit emphasises a “hands-on” approach to learning through the illustration of new concepts through worked examples and demonstrations. The concepts introduced are presented in business scenarios. You will work on the case studies in the tutorials. You are encouraged to work in groups.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
You can obtain feedback on your progress throughout the unit through the following mechanisms:
- ask the teaching staff for advice and assistance during the workshop sessions;
- throughout the semester, we will prepare you for the assessment and the exam through practices and quizzes
- each assignment will be returned to you before the submission of the next task with comments on your progress; and
- tutors are available during the tutorials to clarify or elaborate on the assignment content and provide constructive feedback;
Assessment
Overview
General assessment information
There are two assignments and a final exam used to assess your ability to meet the unit learning outcomes of this unit. The first assignment is individual with the second one being a group task that will be based on the material covered in the pre-recorded lectures and tutorials. The tasks will be discussed during the tutorials and/or pre-recorded lectures. This will provide you with a deeper understanding of the nature of the task. Selected supporting resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site. A detailed marking rubric will be available for the assignment. The final exam will be held during the central examination period and will assess all unit content.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Basic Modelling
The assignment will assess your understanding of the key concepts of the first part of the unit by applying your learning to real world modelling scenario/s.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Large-scale Modelling
This group assignment focuses on complex application areas of business process modelling. You will be given a real-life case study and are expected to provide a comprehensive project report detailing the steps and outcomes of the modelling project. This task will also assess your ability to work effectively in a group. You will get comprehensive feedback on this task.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Exam
Final written exam, covering all contents of the unit.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Requirements to Study
Costs
No extraordinary charges or costs are associated with the requirements for this unit.
Resources
All resource materials will be available in the unit Canvas site. Below are some recommended texts that you might like to access to support your learning in this unit.
Resource Materials
Recommended text(s)
B. Silver: BPMN Method and Style: A Levels-based Methodology for BPM Process Modeling and Improvement Using BPMN 2.0. Cody-Cassidy Press, 2009.
J. Becker, M. Kugeler, M. Rosemann (eds.): Process Management. A Guide for the Process-oriented Design of Organizations. Eds.: Springer-Verlag: Berlin et al. 2003: Chapter 3.
M. Weske: Business Process Management. Concepts, Languages, Architectures. Springer 2007: Chapters 3 - 6.
P. Harmon. Business Process Change. A Guide for Business Managers and BPM and Six Sigma Professionals. 2nd edition, Morgan Kaufman Publishers. Amsterdam, 2007: Chapters 3, 4, 9, 15,16.
R. Davies and E. Brabaender: ARIS Design Platform. Getting Started with BPM. Springer 2007: Chapter 7.
W. van der Aalst, K. van Hee: Workflow Management. Models, Methods, and Systems (2002s): Chapter 2
ter Hofstede, W. van der Aalst, M. Adams, N. Russell (eds.), Modern Business Process Automation: YAWL and its Support Environment. Springer, 2010: Chapters 1 - 3.
Reference book(s)
M. Dumas, M. La Rosa, J. Mendling, H.A. Reijers. Fundamentals of Business Process Management. Springer 2018 (second edition): Chapters 1 - 5.
You are encouraged to obtain a (digital) copy of the above textbook from the library.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no unusual health or safety risks associated with this unit.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.IN01 Bachelor of Information Technology
- Demonstrate a broad theoretical and technical knowledge of well-established and emerging IT disciplines, with in-depth knowledge in at least one specialist area aligned to multiple ICT professional roles.
Relates to: ULO1, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam - Critically analyse and conceptualise complex IT challenges and opportunities using modelling, abstraction, ideation and problem-solving to generate, evaluate and justify recommended solutions.
Relates to: ULO2, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam - Integrate and apply technical knowledge and skills to analyse, design, build, operate and maintain sustainable, secure IT systems using industry-standard tools, technologies, platforms, and processes.
Relates to: ULO3, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam - Demonstrate initiative, autonomy and personal responsibility for continuous learning, working both independently and collaboratively within multi-disciplinary teams, employing state-of-the-art IT project management methodologies to plan and manage time, resources, and risk.
Relates to: ULO5, Large-scale Modelling - Communicate professionally and effectively in written, verbal and visual formats to a diverse range of stakeholders, considering the audience and explaining complex ideas in a simple and understandable manner in a range of IT-related contexts.
Relates to: ULO4, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2026, Online
| Unit code: | IAB203 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
Overview
This unit introduces business process management concepts: how organisations improve their processes in terms of time, cost and quality. It introduces process identification and process discovery. Furthermore, it addresses the fundamentals of process modelling: model quality, correctness issues and modelling in BPMN's collaboration and choreography diagrams. After this unit, IAB320 continues with other business process improvement steps.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of business process modelling theory, frameworks and methods.
- Critically analyse large organisational contexts to identify and define problems, and to prioritise issues.
- Create business process models for addressing complex real-world organisational problems using business process modeling languages.
- Communicate and justify business process recommendations professionally to stakeholders in written and visual formats.
- Work independently and collaborate with others to manage an deliver a project on time for a client.
Content
This unit presents a detailed introduction to the capabilities and constraints of current process modelling languages. It will start by showing how key modelling principles (e.g. abstraction, modularisation) can be applied to process modelling. Next, the focus will be on the in-depth explanation and application of process modelling languages used in practice: the Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN 2.0) - the current de-facto standard for process modelling in industry.
Finally, the topics of process identification, process discovery and applying BPM in large organisations will be dealt with. Modelling tools will be introduced in the tutorials.
In this unit you will develop specific skills in process modelling as well as general skills in abstraction, complexity management, critical thinking, team work and writing skills. Additional learning materials will be provided to you to improve understanding of all major topics. You will be given authentic scenarios and case studies for which they are expected to provide process modelling reports. They will be introduced to the key techniques for stakeholder analysis and interviews when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders. You will also learn industry standard tools and techniques for business analysis. Furthermore, you will have guest lecture(s) showcasing their best practices, providing networking and prospective career paths. This unit will help create more sustainable and cost-effective processes by reducing waste and improving resource utilisation. An industry partner will communicate with you a real problem they are facing, for which you will be asked to provide a solution as part of your assessment.
Learning Approaches
You can expect to spend 10 hours per week involved in preparing for and attending scheduled classes, preparing and completing assessment tasks as well as independent study and consolidation of your learning.
The content of the unit is delivered through pre-recorded lectures, tutorials, case studies, and the QUT Canvas site. Pre-recorded lectures cover theoretical aspects of the unit, and practical sessions provide an opportunity to solve practical exercises, based on the current week's lecture. Tutorial staff will be available to provide assistance. Formative feedback is provided during each tutorial.
The unit emphasises a “hands-on” approach to learning through the illustration of new concepts through worked examples and demonstrations. The concepts introduced are presented in business scenarios. You will work on the case studies in the tutorials. You are encouraged to work in groups.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
You can obtain feedback on your progress throughout the unit through the following mechanisms:
- ask the teaching staff for advice and assistance during the workshop sessions;
- throughout the semester, we will prepare you for the assessment and the exam through practices and quizzes
- each assignment will be returned to you before the submission of the next task with comments on your progress; and
- tutors are available during the tutorials to clarify or elaborate on the assignment content and provide constructive feedback;
Assessment
Overview
General assessment information
There are two assignments and a final exam used to assess your ability to meet the unit learning outcomes of this unit. The first assignment is individual with the second one being a group task that will be based on the material covered in the pre-recorded lectures and tutorials. The tasks will be discussed during the tutorials and/or pre-recorded lectures. This will provide you with a deeper understanding of the nature of the task. Selected supporting resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site. A detailed marking rubric will be available for the assignment. The final exam will be held during the central examination period and will assess all unit content.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Basic Modelling
The assignment will assess your understanding of the key concepts of the first part of the unit by applying your learning to real world modelling scenario/s.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Large-scale Modelling
This group assignment focuses on complex application areas of business process modelling. You will be given a real-life case study and are expected to provide a comprehensive project report detailing the steps and outcomes of the modelling project. This task will also assess your ability to work effectively in a group. You will get comprehensive feedback on this task.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Exam
Final written exam, covering all contents of the unit.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Requirements to Study
Costs
No extraordinary charges or costs are associated with the requirements for this unit.
Resources
All resource materials will be available in the unit Canvas site. Below are some recommended texts that you might like to access to support your learning in this unit.
Resource Materials
Recommended text(s)
B. Silver: BPMN Method and Style: A Levels-based Methodology for BPM Process Modeling and Improvement Using BPMN 2.0. Cody-Cassidy Press, 2009.
J. Becker, M. Kugeler, M. Rosemann (eds.): Process Management. A Guide for the Process-oriented Design of Organizations. Eds.: Springer-Verlag: Berlin et al. 2003: Chapter 3.
M. Weske: Business Process Management. Concepts, Languages, Architectures. Springer 2007: Chapters 3 - 6.
P. Harmon. Business Process Change. A Guide for Business Managers and BPM and Six Sigma Professionals. 2nd edition, Morgan Kaufman Publishers. Amsterdam, 2007: Chapters 3, 4, 9, 15,16.
R. Davies and E. Brabaender: ARIS Design Platform. Getting Started with BPM. Springer 2007: Chapter 7.
W. van der Aalst, K. van Hee: Workflow Management. Models, Methods, and Systems (2002s): Chapter 2
ter Hofstede, W. van der Aalst, M. Adams, N. Russell (eds.), Modern Business Process Automation: YAWL and its Support Environment. Springer, 2010: Chapters 1 - 3.
Reference book(s)
M. Dumas, M. La Rosa, J. Mendling, H.A. Reijers. Fundamentals of Business Process Management. Springer 2018 (second edition): Chapters 1 - 5.
You are encouraged to obtain a (digital) copy of the above textbook from the library.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no unusual health or safety risks associated with this unit.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.IN01 Bachelor of Information Technology
- Demonstrate a broad theoretical and technical knowledge of well-established and emerging IT disciplines, with in-depth knowledge in at least one specialist area aligned to multiple ICT professional roles.
Relates to: ULO1, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam - Critically analyse and conceptualise complex IT challenges and opportunities using modelling, abstraction, ideation and problem-solving to generate, evaluate and justify recommended solutions.
Relates to: ULO2, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam - Integrate and apply technical knowledge and skills to analyse, design, build, operate and maintain sustainable, secure IT systems using industry-standard tools, technologies, platforms, and processes.
Relates to: ULO3, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam - Demonstrate initiative, autonomy and personal responsibility for continuous learning, working both independently and collaboratively within multi-disciplinary teams, employing state-of-the-art IT project management methodologies to plan and manage time, resources, and risk.
Relates to: ULO5, Large-scale Modelling - Communicate professionally and effectively in written, verbal and visual formats to a diverse range of stakeholders, considering the audience and explaining complex ideas in a simple and understandable manner in a range of IT-related contexts.
Relates to: ULO4, Basic Modelling, Large-scale Modelling, Exam