Process mining
Definition
Process mining reconstructs how a process actually runs by analysing timestamps and event logs from existing systems. It reveals real variants, loops, waiting times and rework — usually a very different picture from the documented process.
It answers the question that decides automation ROI: where is the time actually lost, and how often does the ideal path really occur?
For mid-sized companies a lightweight variant is often enough: export the event data of one process, quantify the top three variants, and automate against reality.
In practice
- Exposes hidden rework loops and waiting times
- Quantifies which variants are worth automating
- Provides the baseline for measuring later improvement
Related terms
- Process auditA process audit is a structured review of recurring workflows: which steps exist, which systems and people are involved, how long each step takes, how often it fails, and what a case costs. It produces the evidence base for any automation decision.
- Business process automation (BPA)Business process automation is the systematic execution of a recurring business process by software, from trigger to result, including the data, rules and hand-offs involved. Unlike single-task tools it targets the whole chain: intake, decision, execution and record.
- Automation KPIAutomation KPIs are the figures that prove whether an automated process is working: touchless completion rate, cycle time, error and rework rate, cost per case, and volume handled per period. They are defined before the build, not after.