Knowledge-intensive Business Processes—A Case Study for Disease Management in Farming

Knowledge-intensive business processes (KIBPs) are strongly connected with knowledge work (KW). Thus, the definition of KW determines the relevant area of KIBPs. KW characteristics such as rather unstructured processes, user-driven, relying on knowledge, need for flexibility, adaptability, creativity and autonomy of knowledge workers are also associated with KIBPs. However, several authors argue based on their empirical findings that KW often also involves predefined, repetitive tasks besides a lot of creative work. Furthermore, latest trends put more emphasis on the practice of knowing. Based on our understanding of KW, we study a farming business process, which is not regarded as a typical KW domain. However, when looking at the details, many KIBP characteristics can be identified. Based on a use case dealing with disease management, particularly plant protection, in farming, we evaluate our understanding of KIBPs and thus, prepare the basis for the requirements definition concerning supporting models and methods with respect to adequate IT support.