A

Adoption

The uptake and effective use of a new system or process by its intended users. High adoption is critical to realizing the value of digital transformation and ensuring new solutions deliver their expected benefits.

 

Adoption Failure

When users do not fully embrace a new system or change, causing the initiative to fall short of its goals. Often due to inadequate process clarity or change management, adoption failure results in workarounds, inconsistent processes, and underutilized technology.

 

Agentic AI

An advanced form of artificial intelligence focused on autonomous decision-making and action. Unlike traditional AI that only responds to prompts, agentic AI can sit goals, plan steps, and execute tasks with minimal human intervention.

 

Agile Delivery

An iterative approach to project execution that emphasizes flexibility, frequent feedback, and incremental delivery of value. Agile delivery breaks work into short cycles (sprints) to adapt quickly to change and continuously improve outcomes.

 

AI Adoption

The process of integrating and embracing AI technologies within an organization’s operations. Successful AI adoption requires not just technology implementation but also readiness in data, processes, and skills to ensure AI solutions are effectively used and add value.

 

AI Agents

Software programs driven by AI that can autonomously perceive their environment, make decisions, and take actions to achieve defined goals. AI agents operate with minimal continuous user input and can use tools or data as needed, acting within human-set objectives and constraints.

 

AI Context layer

The structured business knowledge that provides context for AI systems, such as defined processes, roles, and relationships. An AI context layer grounds AI models in how the organization operates, enabling more relevant and accurate AI outputs rather than generic responses.

 

AI Governance

The framework of policies, oversight, and ethical guidelines to control how AI is developed and used in an organization. AI governance ensures AI initiatives align with compliance requirements, manage risks, and operate in a transparent, accountable manner.

 

AI Readiness

An organization’s preparedness to implement and scale AI solutions effectively. AI readiness involves having the necessary data quality, process clarity, talent, and governance in place so that AI can be adopted and deliver sustainable value

 

AI Driven Operations

Business operations that leverage artificial intelligence to automate decision-making or tasks, improving efficiency or effectiveness. In AI-driven operations, machine learning insights or AI agents continuously assist or execute parts of workflows, augmenting human capabilities.

 

API (Application Programming Interface)

A standardized interface that enables different software applications to communicate and exchange data securely. APIs connect business applications, allowing information to flow between systems such as ERP, CRM, process management, and AI platforms, creating integrated and connected business processes.

 

Application Architecture

The structural design of software applications and how they interact within a system. It defines the organization of components, modules, and data flows in an application or across a suite of applications, ensuring they meet business requirements and work together effectively.

 

Approval Workflow

A predefined sequence of steps or tasks through which a request or document must pass to get authorized. Often managed by process software, an approval workflow ensures that the right stakeholders review and approve changes or decisions in a consistent, traceable manner.

 

Auditability

The quality of a process or system that makes it easily reviewable by an auditor. Highly auditable systems maintain clear records (who did what, when and why), so that compliance with policies or regulations can be verified.

 

Audit trail

A chronological record of all significant activities or changes in a system or process. An audit trail provides transparency and accountability by documenting each step or transaction, typically including timestamps and user identifiers, to support compliance and troubleshooting.

 

Automation

The use of technology to perform tasks with little or no human intervention. Automation can streamline processes by executing routine or data-driven tasks automatically, freeing up people for higher-value work and reducing errors.

 

Autonomous Operations

Operations that run with minimal human oversight, often using automation and AI to make decisions or adapt in real-time. In autonomous operations, systems self-regulate and handle exceptions according to predefined rules or learned behavior, increasing efficiency and consistency.

 

Azure DevOps (ADO)

Microsoft’s cloud-based platform for software development collaboration, which provides version control, work item tracking, build/release pipelines, and more. In the context of transformation projects, Azure DevOps is used to manage requirements and development tasks, and Mavim integrates with ADO to link business processes to work items for full traceability.

B

Backlog

In agile and project management, a backlog is a prioritized list of tasks, features, or user stories waiting to be done. Teams work through the backlog in order of priority, regularly reviewing and reprioritizing it as needs evolve

Benchmarking

The practice of comparing a company’s processes, performance metrics, or systems against industry standards or best practices. Benchmarking helps identify performance gaps and improvement opportunities by showing how one organization stacks up against peers or ideal targets.

Bottleneck Analysis

The process of identifying and examining the slowest step or constraint in a workflow that limits overall throughput. By analysing bottlenecks, organizations can determine root causes of delays and implement solutions to improve the flow and efficiency of the entire process.

 

Business Process Catalog

A centralized library of standard business process models, particularly referring to Microsoft’s Business Process Catalog for Dynamics 365. The BPC provides best-practice process templates that organizations can use as a starting point in transformations; Mavim makes the BPC interactive by visualizing these processes and aligning them to actual implementations for fit-gap analysis

 

BPM (Business Process Management)

A discipline and set of methods to discover, design, execute, monitor, and optimize business processes. BPM focuses on continuously improving how work gets done to achieve consistent, efficient results aligned with an organization’s strategic goals.

 

Business Architecture

A practice focusing on an enterprise’s business structure, mapping how capabilities, processes, and organizational units align to business strategy. Business architecture defines key business capabilities and their relationships, providing a blueprint that guides transformations and technology alignment.

 

Business Capability

A high-level function or ability that an organization needs to achieve its mission (for example, “Order Management” or “Risk Management”). Capabilities are often used as building blocks in enterprise planning and architecture to ensure the business has all necessary competencies in place.

 

Business Context for AI

The structured understanding of an organization’s processes, rules, and environment that is provided to AI systems. Embedding business context (like process flows, roles, controls) in AI ensures that AI solutions operate with relevant knowledge and constraints, making them more accurate and trustworthy for enterprise use.

 

Business Intelligence (BI)

Technologies and practices for collecting, integrating, and analysing business data to support better decision-making. BI typically encompasses data warehousing, reporting, and visualization to transform raw data into actionable insights for management.

 

Business Model

The blueprint of how an organization creates and delivers value to customers, and how it captures profits. It describes the key offerings, customer segments, revenue streams, and resources that together explain how the enterprise runs successfully.

 

Business Process

A series of structured steps or activities carried out to achieve a specific business outcome (such as processing an order or onboarding an employee). Business processes often span people, systems, and departments, and are modelled to improve clarity, efficiency, and consistency.

 

Business Transformation

A broad change initiative where an organization fundamentally rethinks and redesigns its processes, systems, or organizational structure to achieve significant improvements in performance. Digital transformation (a subset) often involves adopting new technologies and process paradigms to increase agility, efficiency, or customer value.

C

Copilot

A conversational AI assistant that helps users perform tasks in business or productivity applications by understanding natural language commands. For example, Microsoft 365 Copilot can generate content or insights by combining large language models with a user’s organizational data and context, effectively acting as an AI “co-pilot” to human workers.

 

Capability Model

A representation (often visual) of an organization’s business capabilities structured into categories or levels. A capability model shows what the enterprise does (or needs to do) to fulfill its objectives, serving as a planning tool for aligning processes, technology, and talent to core capabilities.

Capability Mapping

The process of linking business capabilities to other elements like processes, systems, or organizational units. Capability mapping helps organizations understand what resources support each capability and identify redundancies or gaps in achieving strategic goals.

Compliance

The state of adhering to all applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies. In business terms, compliance usually involves processes and controls to ensure activities (from data handling to financial reporting) meet established standards and avoid legal or regulatory issues.

 

Change Impact

The effect that a proposed change (like a new system, policy, or process) will have on various aspects of an organization. Understanding change impact involves identifying who and what will be affected, including processes, roles, systems, and outcomes.

 

Change Impact analysis

A systematic assessment conducted before implementing a change, to predict and document all the areas that will be influenced by that change. This analysis helps in planning mitigation strategies and preparing stakeholders, ensuring smoother transitions with minimal negative surprises.

 

Change Management

A structured approach to help individuals and the organization transition from a current state to a desired future state. Change management encompasses communication, training, and support activities to increase buy-in and reduce resistance, ensuring that new processes or systems are adopted successfully.

 

Change Adoption

The degree to which people in an organization accept and effectively use a new change (e.g., a tool or process) as intended. High change adoption means the workforce has integrated the change into their routine, whereas low adoption might signal ongoing resistance or lack of understanding.

 

Configuration

Adjusting settings and options in software to meet specific requirements without altering source code (as opposed to custom development). Configuration tailors off-the-shelf solutions (like an ERP system) to a business’s needs via supported parameters—ensuring solutions fit processes while staying within standard capabilities.

 

Control Framework

A set of governance structures and control activities that ensure processes run as intended and risks are managed. A control framework typically defines policies, roles, procedures, and monitoring mechanisms to maintain compliance and consistency across operations (for example, COBIT or COSO frameworks in IT and finance).

 

Customer Journey

The complete sequence of interactions a customer has with a company and its products/services, from initial awareness through purchase and post-sale support. Mapping the customer journey helps organizations optimize each touchpoint (marketing, sales, service, etc.) for a better overall customer experience.

 

Customer Engagement (CE)

The ongoing relationship and interactions between a business and its customers across channels and touchpoints. Often referring to CRM (Customer Relationship Management) activities, customer engagement encompasses how a company communicates with, sells to, and supports its customers to build loyalty and satisfaction.

 

Customization

Modifying a software system’s code or features beyond standard configuration to meet specific needs. While customization can provide a tailored fit, it increases complexity and maintenance effort, so modern best practices encourage a “fit-to-standard” approach where possible to reduce excessive custom code.

 

Continous Improvement

An ongoing effort to enhance products, services, or processes incrementally. Through methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma, continuous improvement (CI) focuses on frequently evaluating performance and implementing small changes that cumulatively lead to significant efficiency or quality gains over time.

 

Continous Monitoring

An ongoing effort to enhance products, services, or processes incrementally. Through methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma, continuous improvement (CI) focuses on frequently evaluating performance and implementing small changes that cumulatively lead to significant efficiency or quality gains over time.

 

CI/CD Continous Integration / Deployment

A DevOps practice where development teams frequently merge code changes (Continuous Integration) and automate release processes to deploy software updates rapidly and reliably (Continuous Deployment). CI/CD pipelines help deliver improvements to applications continuously while ensuring quality through automated tests.

 

CRM (Customer Relationship Management)

Both a business strategy and a category of software (like Dynamics 365 CE) for managing interactions with customers and prospects. CRM systems centralize customer data (contacts, history, sales opportunities, service tickets) and support processes in sales, marketing, and customer service to improve relationships and outcomes.

 

Cycle Time

The total time it takes to complete one cycle of a process from start to finish. Reducing cycle time (e.g., the time from order placement to fulfillment) is often a goal of process optimization to increase throughput and customer satisfaction.

D

Data Integration

The process of combining data from different sources into a unified view or repository. Data integration ensures that all relevant information (from various databases or applications) can be analyzed together, supporting consistent reporting and a “single source of truth” across the organization.

 

Data Transformation

Converting data from one format or structure to another to make it usable in a new context or system. Data transformation can involve cleansing, aggregating, or reformatting data during migration or integration, ensuring that data aligns to the target system’s requirements.

 

Data Migration

The process of moving data from one system or storage location to another, often performed during system upgrades or replacements (like moving from a legacy system to a new platform). Successful data migration involves extracting data, transforming it as needed, and loading it into the target system with minimal disruption and high accuracy.

 

Data Validation

The practice of checking data for correctness, quality, and compliance with required formats before it is used or moved. Data validation routines help identify errors or inconsistencies in data (such as missing values or wrong types) so they can be corrected, ensuring decisions and processes are based on reliable information.

 

Delivery Acceleration

Strategies or tools that speed up project or product delivery timelines without compromising quality. For example, using standardized content or accelerators (like the Business Process Catalog) can accelerate ERP project delivery by up to 30% by reducing rework and helping teams make faster, well-informed decisions.

 

Delivery Model

The overarching approach and structure by which a project or service is delivered. A delivery model defines roles (e.g., client vs partner responsibilities), methodologies (agile vs waterfall), and stages (design, build, test, deploy) for execution, tailored to ensure consistent and successful outcomes.

 

Design Phase

The stage in a project lifecycle where detailed plans and specifications are created for the solution. In the design phase, process flows, system configurations, and user experiences are defined and documented before any actual building or coding begins

 

Deploy Phase

The stage of a project in which the finalized solution is rolled out to the production environment or end-users. The deploy (deployment) phase often includes final data migration, user training, and making the new system or process live, culminating in the “go-live” event.

 

Digital Transformation

A comprehensive initiative to leverage digital technologies (like cloud, AI, automation) to fundamentally change how an organization operates and delivers value to customers. Digital transformation involves rethinking processes, culture, and customer experiences to achieve significant improvements in efficiency, agility, and business outcomes.

 

Digital Twin of the Organization (DTO)

A dynamic digital model that mirrors an organization’s processes, systems, and structure in real time. A DTO platform (such as Mavim) provides a living blueprint of how the organization operates, enabling analysis, simulation, and informed decision-making for transformation and continuous improvement.

 

Discovery Workshop

An interactive session early in a project where stakeholders collaborate to gather requirements, understand current processes, and identify goals. Discovery workshops help align teams on the problem space and solution approach, often producing initial process maps or scope definitions for a change initiative.

 

DTO Platform

A software platform that enables creation and maintenance of a Digital Twin of the Organization. Such platforms integrate process modeling, enterprise architecture, and data to continuously capture how a business runs. Mavim’s Intelligent Transformation Platform is an example of a DTO platform that organizations use to visualize and govern their operations for strategic change.

 

Dynamics 365

Microsoft’s suite of cloud-based enterprise applications for CRM (Customer Engagement) and ERP (Finance, Supply Chain, etc.). Dynamics 365 provides modular business apps (like Sales, Customer Service, Finance, Supply Chain Management) that work together and integrate with the Microsoft ecosystem to support end-to-end business processes.

E

End-to-End Process

A business process that covers all phases from the first trigger or request through to the final outcome, spanning all involved roles and systems. End-to-end processes provide a complete view of how value is delivered (e.g., from customer order to product delivery) and often cross multiple departments.

 

Enterprise Architecture (EA)

A discipline that defines and aligns an organization’s structure of business processes, information, applications, and IT infrastructure with its strategy. Enterprise architecture provides a holistic view of the enterprise, ensuring that technology and process initiatives fit together and support business objectives.

 

Enterprise Context

The broader organizational environment in which a specific project or process exists, including all related processes, systems, goals, and constraints. Understanding enterprise context ensures that changes or solutions are designed with awareness of their impact and alignment across the entire organization, not just a single team.

 

ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning)

Integrated software systems that manage and automate core business functions (like finance, supply chain, manufacturing, HR, and others) on a shared data platform. ERP solutions (e.g., Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations) provide a central source of truth for transactions and data, streamlining operations across an enterprise.

 

ERP Transformation

A major initiative to implement or overhaul an ERP system as a catalyst for broader business improvement. ERP transformation projects often involve re-engineering business processes, aligning to best practices (fit-to-standard), and significant change management to ensure the new ERP drives efficiency and strategic value.

 

ERP Implementation

The process of deploying a new ERP system in an organization, typically encompassing project phases from planning and design through build, testing, data migration, training, and go-live. A successful ERP implementation requires cross-functional collaboration, adherence to best practices (like Microsoft’s Success by Design), and careful management of scope and requirements.

 

ERP Migration

Moving from one ERP system to another (for example, from a legacy on-premise ERP to a modern cloud-based Dynamics 365 system). ERP migration involves converting data and processes to the new platform, often with the goal of leveraging updated capabilities while minimizing disruption to the business.

 

ERP Rollout

The phased deployment of an ERP solution across different parts of an organization, often by region, business unit, or module. Large enterprises might “roll out” an ERP in waves rather than a single big bang, allowing learnings and adjustments as each phase of the organization goes live with the system.

F

FastTrack for Dynamics 365

A Microsoft customer success program designed to help organizations implement Dynamics 365 faster and with higher quality. FastTrack provides expert guidance, best practices (via the Success by Design methodology), and regular checkpoints led by Microsoft engineers, ensuring that projects are on track for a successful go-live.

 

Feedback loop

A mechanism where outputs or results are fed back into the system or process as input for continual improvement. In business, feedback loops (e.g. customer feedback or performance metrics) help teams refine their processes or products by learning from outcomes and making adjustments.

 

Fit-to-standard

An implementation approach that favors using standard, out-of-the-box software functionality and best-practice processes over heavy customization. Fit-to-standard encourages organizations to adapt their processes to match proven standard models (like those in the Business Process Catalog) rather than customizing software to old ways, resulting in simpler, more upgrade-friendly systems.

 

Fit-Gap Analysis

The process of comparing current business requirements to the capabilities of a proposed standard solution to identify where it “fits” and where there are “gaps.” Each gap represents a requirement not met by the base solution, which can then be addressed by process changes, configurations, or necessary customizations.

G

Go-live

The moment or date when a new system, process, or initiative is officially launched and becomes operational for end users. A go-live marks the transition from project phase to business-as-usual usage, often preceded by extensive testing, training, and readiness checks to ensure a smooth cutover.

 

Governance

The system of decision-making, accountability, and control that guides how an organization is managed. In a process or IT context, governance defines who has authority to make changes, how changes are evaluated and approved, and how compliance and performance are monitored over time.

 

Governance Framework

A structured set of principles and roles designed to ensure effective governance in a particular domain (such as data governance or process governance). It lays out the policies, responsibilities, and procedures that maintain control, compliance, and alignment with strategic objectives as changes occur.

 

GRC (Governance, Risk, Compliance)

An integrated approach to managing an organization through governance practices, risk management, and regulatory compliance. GRC ensures that business processes are not only efficient, but also controlled (governance), resilient to risks, and in line with laws and regulations, often via a combination of frameworks and technology.

I

Implementation

The execution of a plan or policy, often referring to the act of installing and configuring new software or processes in an organization. Implementation projects typically involve setting up the solution, migrating data, testing, and preparing people and systems for the new way of working.

 

Implementation Lifecycle

The series of phases that an implementation project goes through, from initiation and planning to design, build, test, deployment, and post-go-live support. Managing the implementation lifecycle with clear stage gates and deliverables (for example, adopting Microsoft’s Success by Design stages) helps ensure predictable and successful project outcomes.

 

Intelligent Transformation Platform

A comprehensive software environment that enables organizations to plan and execute complex transformations with the help of integrated intelligence. Such a platform (like Mavim’s) combines process modeling, enterprise architecture, analytics, and collaboration features to guide transformation from strategy through execution, using data-driven insights to accelerate and govern change.

 

Integration

The process of connecting different systems, applications, or components so they work together as a unified whole. Integration ensures that data flows seamlessly across an organization’s IT landscape (for instance, linking an ERP system with a CRM or a project management tool), reducing silos and enabling end-to-end processes.

 

Internal Controls

Policies, procedures, and mechanisms put in place within an organization to ensure the integrity of financial and operational processes. Internal controls help prevent errors and fraud, ensure compliance with laws and policies, and provide assurance that business processes produce reliable results.

 

IT Landscape

The overall collection of an organization’s information technology assets and how they interconnect. An IT landscape typically includes hardware, software applications, databases, and network infrastructure that support business operations, as well as how these elements integrate within the enterprise architecture.

J

Journey Mapping

The activity of creating a visual map of the steps a user or customer takes to accomplish a goal (such as purchasing a product or resolving an IT issue). Also called customer journey mapping when focused on customers, this tool helps organizations identify touchpoints and pain points to improve experience and outcomes.

K

KPI (Key Performance Indicator)

A quantifiable metric that an organization uses to measure performance against a critical objective. KPIs are specific targets (like customer satisfaction score, cycle time, revenue growth) that reflect how well the business or a process is achieving its goals, guiding management decisions and strategic adjustments.

L

Lead Time

The total time between the initiation of a process or request and its completion. Reducing lead time can improve customer satisfaction and process efficiency by delivering outcomes faster.

 

Lead-to-Opportunity

A stage and process in the sales cycle where initial leads are qualified and converted into sales opportunities. It involves evaluating a potential customer’s interest and fit,  

M

Mavim Academy

Mavim’s online learning platform for training and upskilling users in the Mavim Intelligent Transformation Platform. Based on the Harvard edX program, Mavim Academy offers structured courses (including process mining training) to help customers and partners gain the knowledge to effectively use Mavim’s tools.

 

Mavim AI

The suite of AI-powered capabilities within the Mavim Platform (conversational agents, content creation, analysis) that reduces friction in process documentation and maximizes adoption. It leverages Azure and Microsoft AI services to provide intelligent guidance.

 

Mavim API

The Application Programming Interface provided by Mavim for developers to integrate the Mavim Platform with other systems. The Mavim API offers a controlled way to access and manipulate the platform’s structured process data and functionalities, enabling automation, data exchange, and extension of Mavim’s capabilities in enterprise IT landscapes.

 

Mavim Connect Center

Mavim’s central administration hub for managing the platform’s operational environment. The Connect Center enables organizations to manage user accounts, licenses, databases, and environment provisioning from a single interface (especially in cloud deployments), providing unified control of the Mavim Platform once it’s up and running

 

Mavim Content AI

An AI-driven feature of the Mavim Platform that assists users in creating and refining content. Mavim Content AI can help generate clear, consistent content such as process descriptions, definitions, or documentation by leveraging large language models within the platform, accelerating content creation and ensuring alignment with best practices.

 

Mavim Converse AI

A conversational AI assistant within the Mavim Platform that allows users to query and interact with their organization’s process data using natural language. Built on Azure’s AI services, Mavim ConversAI provides an intuitive way to retrieve information from the Digital Twin of the Organization, turning process content into real-time insights and Q&A-style interactions for faster decision-making.

 

Mavim Copilot Connector

The integration between Mavim and Microsoft Copilot that makes Copilot process-aware. This connector exposes Mavim’s structured process and enterprise data through controlled APIs, allowing Microsoft 365 Copilot (and similar AI assistants) to query governed, up-to-date process models and metadata.

 

Mavim iMprove

Crowd-contribution and editing environment (“Improve”) enabling widespread process editing and feedback in the Mavim Platform. It democratizes content updates by allowing all stakeholders to suggest improvements.

 

Mavim Manager

The primary modeling and repository application of the Mavim Platform used by process architects and administrators. Mavim Manager is the core environment for creating and maintaining process diagrams, enterprise architecture, and related content, providing robust governance (version control, approvals) and integration capabilities for aligning business processes with systems and data.

 

Mavim Platform

The complete Mavim Intelligent Transformation Platform, a Microsoft-aligned Digital Twin of the Organization (DTO) solution for enterprises. The Mavim Platform integrates process modeling, enterprise architecture, process mining, and collaboration tools to provide a single source of truth for processes and operating models. It enables organizations to design, govern, and continuously improve their processes and systems in one environment, seamlessly integrated with the Dynamics 365 and Azure ecosystems.

 

Mavim Portal

Web-based interface that democratizes BPM, EA, GRC and sustainable enterprise management by allowing any authorized user to view process content, subscribe, give feedback, and use it daily. It makes the DTO accessible across the organization

 

Mavim Process AI

AI-driven component that analyzes process data to identify inefficiencies and suggest improvements. It augments human judgment with data-driven insights and can trigger automation or optimization recommendations.

 

Mavim Process Mining

Module that applies process mining techniques to visualize how processes are actually executed, support conformance checking and predict outcomes. It connects mined insights with Mavim models to enable closed-loop improvements

 

Metadata

Structured information describing other data (such as tags, status, owner and system references). In Mavim, metadata enriches process models and documents, enabling advanced search and reporting across the repository.

N

Normalization

In process transformation, the act of unifying different regional or departmental variants into one global standard while allowing essential local differences. Normalization reduces complexity and ensures consistent analysis and governance across the organization.

O

Onboarding

Structured process to integrate new employees or customers, providing access, training and initial data setup. In Mavim projects, onboarding includes using the Academy to certify process architects and guiding teams through environment configuration.

 

Operating Model

Blueprint that defines how an organization delivers value—covering processes, organization, technology and governance. It translates strategy into how the business runs day-to-day and acts as a reference for process design and scaling.

 

Operational Efficiency

Achieving high levels of productivity and quality while minimizing waste and cost. It results from streamlined processes, optimized resource utilisation and continuous improvement, leading to faster delivery and reduced costs.

 

Operational Excellence

A culture and practice of continuously improving performance by aligning all employees and processes to strategic goals. It strives for error-free operation, customer satisfaction and nimble adaptation using Lean and Six Sigma approaches.

 

Operational Intelligence

Real-time analysis of operational data to detect patterns, monitor performance and inform decisions. It combines metrics with process context to provide actionable insights for improving efficiency and quality.

 

Optimization

Adjusting processes to achieve the best possible performance—lower cost, higher quality or greater speed. Optimization is iterative and data-driven, removing bottlenecks and aligning resources to value-adding activities.

 

Order-to-Cash (O2C)

End-to-end process encompassing order creation, fulfillment, delivery, invoicing and payment collection. Efficient O2C processes are critical for customer satisfaction and healthy cash flow, and are typically addressed during ERP transformation.

P

Performance monitoring

Ongoing measurement of KPIs and metrics to assess whether processes, systems or individuals meet targets. It enables timely interventions and drives continuous improvement by highlighting gaps.

 

Pipeline

A flow of work or opportunities moving through stages such as sales (lead → opportunity → deal) or software delivery (backlog → development → release). Managing the pipeline ensures steady progress and identifies bottlenecks.

 

Predictive Analytics

Uses historical data and machine learning to forecast future events. Predictive analytics helps anticipate demand, identify potential failures or bottlenecks, and inform proactive decisions to optimize performance.

 

Prescriptive Analytics

analytics that not only predict outcomes but also recommend actions or decisions. It uses data and rules to suggest what should be done in a scenario, providing optimized solutions or automated responses.

 

Presales

pre-contract activities, discovering requirements, demonstrating solutions, preparing proposals, that align product capabilities with customer needs and increase the likelihood of closing a deal.

 

Procedure

step-by-step instructions on executing a specific task or sub-process. Procedures support training and compliance by ensuring work is performed consistently and correctly, often documented as SOPs.

 

Process

a structured set of activities performed by people or systems to achieve a defined business outcome. Processes are modelled and governed in Mavim to enhance efficiency, quality, compliance and transformation readiness.

 

Process Analytics

examination of process metrics (cycle time, cost, error rates) to understand performance and find improvement opportunities. It is often integrated into process management platforms to sustain data-driven improvements.

 

Process Architecture

hierarchical structure of an organization’s processes and sub-processes, showing how they interconnect. A clear process architecture acts as a blueprint for aligning processes to strategy and supporting governance.

 

Process Benchmarking

Comparing the performance or practices of a process against industry norms or leading organizations. It reveals performance gaps and identifies best-practice targets for improvement.

 

Process Context for AI

providing AI systems with structured knowledge of an organization’s processes (roles, rules, dependencies) so AI outputs are business-aware and relevant. It ensures AI recommendations align with how the enterprise works.

 

Process Discovery

identifying and documenting how a process is executed, either manually (interviews) or through tools like process mining. Discovery forms the baseline for documentation, standardization and improvement efforts.

 

Process Documentation

capturing all key details of a process (steps, roles, inputs, controls) in written and visual form, creating a single source of truth. Documentation supports training, compliance and continuous improvement.

 

Process Flow

visual representation of the sequential steps, decisions and interactions in a process (often a flowchart or BPMN diagram). Clear flows help stakeholders understand and optimize how work progresses from start to finish.

 

Process Governance

Framework of roles, responsibilities and policies ensuring processes are defined, maintained and changed in a controlled manner. Good governance supports compliance, alignment with strategy and consistent quality across the enterprise.

 

Process Harmonization

Standardizing similar processes across regions or departments to eliminate unnecessary variations while accommodating essential local differences. Harmonization reduces complexity and improves efficiency in global operations.

 

Process Intelligence

Insights gained by analyzing process execution data and models to understand performance and identify improvements. In Mavim, process intelligence combines process mining, analytics and AI to reveal hidden patterns

 

Process Lifecycle

The stages of the process goes through, from design and implementation to operation, monitoring, continuous improvement and eventual retirement. Lifecycle management ensures processes stay relevant and efficient over time.

 

Process Mapping

Diagramming process steps and interactions using standardized notations (like BPMN) to clarify how work is done. In Mavim, mapping is integrated with the repository to keep models governed and connected to enterprise data.

 

Process Mining

Technique for automatically discovering and visualizing how processes really operate by analyzing event logs from IT systems. It uncovers variants, bottlenecks and compliance issues and complements designed process models

 

Process Model

Formal blueprint of a process showing tasks, decision points, roles and inputs/outputs. Process models in Mavim form part of the Digital Twin of the Organization, enabling governance and analysis.

 

Process Ownership

Assignment of accountability for a process to a specific individual or role who ensures its performance and compliance. Clear ownership underpins effective governance and continuous improvement.

 

Process Performance

Measurement of how well a process achieves its objectives (cycle time, error rate, cost per transaction, customer satisfaction). Monitoring performance is key to identifying improvement opportunities.

 

Process Simulation

Modeling technique that allows testing changes to a process in a virtual environment. Simulation predicts the impact of changes on throughput or resources, de-risking real-world implementation.

 

Process Stakeholder

Anyone impacted by a process or involved in it—process participants, owners or customers. Engaging stakeholders ensures processes are designed and improved with all perspectives in mind.

 

Process Standardization

Establishing a best-practice way of executing a process across the organization, often based on reference models like the BPC. Standardization reduces duplication, improves quality and eases global governance.

 

Process Visibility

Degree to which leaders can see how processes operate in real time and understand their performance. High visibility comes from process mapping, dashboards and monitoring, enabling rapid detection of issues and data-driven decisions.

 

Post Go-live

Period after a new system or process is launched, involving support, training reinforcement and monitoring. Post-go-live activities ensure the solution stabilizes, adoption remains high and any issues are resolved quickly.

 

Power Platform

Microsoft’s low-code/no-code suite—Power BI, Power Apps, Power Automate and Power Virtual Agents—used to build dashboards, automate workflows and create applications. It’s tightly integrated with M365 and Dynamics 365 and enhances digital transformations with Mavim and ERP/CRM projects.

R

Regulatory Compliance

Adherence to laws, regulations and standards governing business operations (e.g., GDPR, SOX). Compliance requires implementing controls, documenting processes and regularly auditing activities to avoid violations.

 

Repository

Central, structured storage for process models, documents and metadata. Mavim’s repository acts as the single source of truth, enabling controlled access, versioning and cross-referencing of enterprise knowledge and process content.

 

Resource Planning

Allocating and managing resources (people, budget, equipment, time) to ensure they are available when needed and used efficiently. Good resource planning avoids bottlenecks and over-allocation in projects or operations.

 

Rework

Work that must be redone due to errors, omissions or changes. Rework increases cost and delays schedules; minimizing rework through quality management and clear requirements is a core objective in Lean and project disciplines.

 

Rework Risk

Probability that work will need to be repeated due to quality issues or misunderstandings. Identifying and mitigating rework risk helps contain costs and keep projects on schedule.

 

Risk Management

Process of identifying, analyzing and controlling threats to organizational objectives (financial, operational, compliance). It includes assessing likelihood and impact, prioritizing risks and implementing mitigation plans.

 

Risk Mitigation

Concrete actions taken to reduce the likelihood or impact of risks (e.g., controls, training, contingency plans). Mitigation strategies ensure that risks remain within acceptable levels.

 

Root Cause Analysis

Problem-solving method used to identify the underlying cause of issues rather than treating symptoms. By finding the true source, organizations can implement solutions that prevent recurrence, improving quality and efficiency.

 

Role-Based Access

Security method that grants permissions based on a user’s role in the organization (e.g., process owner, contributor, viewer). It ensures people can only perform actions and view data appropriate to their responsibilities, protecting sensitive information.

S

Scope Creep

Uncontrolled additions or changes to project scope without adjusting time, budget or resources. It often leads to delays and overruns; strong governance and change control prevent scope creep.

 

Semantic Layer

Translation layer in data management that presents complex data in business-friendly terms. A semantic layer defines common business definitions and calculations, making data accessible to non-technical users and supporting consistent analytics.

 

Service Model

Blueprint for how a service (IT or business) is structured, delivered and managed—including processes, roles, systems and interactions. A clear service model helps ensure consistent, quality service delivery and informs improvements.

 

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

Documented step-by-step instructions for performing a routine task. SOPs promote consistency, safety and compliance by defining the correct way to execute activities.

 

Strategy Execution

Process of turning strategic goals into actual results by aligning projects, processes and resources. It involves tracking progress through KPIs, ensuring accountability and making adjustments to stay on course.

 

Solution Blueprint

High-level design describing how various components (processes, systems, organization) will work together to realize a future state. In Mavim, solution blueprints visualize how process models and IT systems align, guiding development and ensuring stakeholders share the same vision.

 

Single Source of truth

One authoritative repository for a given set of information (e.g., process models or data). A single source eliminates conflicting versions and ensures that all stakeholders rely on consistent, up-to-date information.

 

Success by Design

Microsoft’s structured methodology for implementing Dynamics 365 solutions, with rigorous architecture and risk assessments. Mavim aligns with Success by Design by integrating the Business Process Catalog and governance practices to reduce rework and accelerate adoption.

 

System Configuration

Selecting and setting options in software (e.g., ERP, CRM) to tailor it to business requirements without code changes. Configuration offers flexibility while preserving upgradability and is a primary means of fitting software to standard processes.

 

System Integration

Connecting different applications or systems so they work together and share data seamlessly. Integration eliminates silos, enabling end-to-end processes and unified analytics across the enterprise.

T

Target Operating Model (TOM)

Future-state blueprint defining how an organization will operate after transformation, covering processes, structure, technology and governance. A TOM guides change initiatives, showing the path from current state to desired state.

 

Task

A discrete piece of work or activity within a broader process or project. Tasks have clear start and end points and contribute to the overall objectives of the process.

 

Technical Requirements

Specific functional and non-functional criteria that a technical solution must fulfill, performance, security, integration, and infrastructure. These complement business requirements by ensuring solutions are feasible and robust.

 

Traceability

Ability to follow the linkage from requirements through design, implementation and testing to final delivery. Traceability ensures changes are controlled and impacts are understood, which is essential for compliance and quality assurance.

 

Transformation Roadmap

High-level plan outlining the sequence of steps, programs and projects needed to achieve a major transformation. It includes phases, milestones and timelines, coordinating efforts across teams and aligning them to the strategic vision.

 

Tribal Knowledge

Informal, undocumented know-how residing with individuals or small groups. Capturing tribal knowledge into a governed repository (such as Mavim) ensures continuity, reduces reliance on memory and standardizes processes across the organization.

U

User Adoption

The extent to which end-users embrace and effectively use a new system or process. High adoption occurs when users understand the benefits, receive adequate training and see how the change fits their work; it is critical to realizing the value of any transformation.

V

Value Chain

End-to-end model of all activities involved in delivering a product or service, from inbound logistics through operations, marketing, sales and service. Analyzing the value chain helps identify where improvements or competitive advantages can be created.

 

Visualisation

End-to-end model of all activities involved in delivering a product or service, from inbound logistics through operations, marketing, sales and service. Analyzing the value chain helps identify where improvements or competitive advantages can be created.

W

Workflow

A defined sequence of tasks or activities executed to complete a piece of work (e.g., approvals, document routing). Workflows can be manual or automated; well-designed workflows ensure tasks move to the right people at the right time.

 

Workflow Automation

Use of technology to automate the execution and routing of workflows, reducing manual intervention. Tools like Microsoft Power Automate orchestrate tasks, send notifications and integrate systems, driving speed and consistency.