Social BPM Lab -- Characterization of a Collaborative Approach for Business Process Management Education

Business Process Management (BPM) is an important tool for companies to cope with today's competitive market situation. One current mean to gain a competitive edge is through integrating social networks and software into BPM. But though knowledge and skills in this particular area are highly demanded by enterprises there is still a lack of sufficient teaching concepts. Universities typically only offer functional courses without considering the communication and social aspects of BPM. This paper describes a single course unit for BPM at universities disseminating not only theoretical knowledge but also practical application and communication skills. Additionally, problem-based learning and role play simulation have been identified as pedagogical foundations. This Social BPM Lab is based on the Horus Method which comprises relevant aspects of Business Process Management and fosters interactions between students through social media in a lab context. First evaluations show that the lab increases students' involvement and understanding of the connections between BPM theory and practice.