2025
Autores
Russo, N; Mamede, HS; Reis, L;
Publicação
TECHNOLOGIES
Abstract
Business Continuity Management (BCM) is critical for organizations to mitigate disruptions and maintain operations, yet many struggle with fragmented and non-standardized self-assessment tools. Existing frameworks often lack holistic integration, focusing narrowly on isolated components like cyber resilience or risk management, which limits their ability to evaluate BCM maturity comprehensively. This research addresses this gap by proposing a structured Self-Assessment System designed to unify BCM components into an adaptable, standards-aligned methodology. Grounded in Design Science Research, the system integrates a BCM Model comprising eight components and 118 activities, each evaluated through weighted questions to quantify organizational preparedness. The methodology enables organizations to conduct rapid as-is assessments using a 0-100 scoring mechanism with visual indicators (red/yellow/green), benchmark progress over time and against peers, and align with international standards (e.g., ISO 22301, ITIL) while accommodating unique organizational constraints. Demonstrated via focus groups and semi-structured interviews with 10 organizations, the system proved effective in enhancing top management commitment, prioritizing resource allocation, and streamlining BCM implementation-particularly for SMEs with limited resources. Key contributions include a reusable self-assessment tool adaptable to any BCM framework, empirical validation of its utility in identifying weaknesses and guiding continuous improvement, and a pathway from initial assessment to advanced measurement via the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle. By bridging the gap between theoretical standards and practical application, this research offers a scalable solution for organizations to systematically evaluate and improve BCM resilience.
2025
Autores
Silva, A; Mamede, HS; Santos, V; Santos, A; Silveira, C;
Publicação
Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies
Abstract
Numerous Robotic Process Automation (RPA) market solutions with wildly disparate capabilities and business models are being put forth. RPA is still in its infancy, and its technology framework is continually evolving. There are very few comparative studies of RPA systems, and they do not make it simple to tailor the solution to the needs of the business choosing it. Thus, the research question is that it feasible to design a procedure that enables the choice of the most appropriate RPA tool while accounting for a particular business domain, reality, and set of requirements? In order to accomplish this, this study builds an artifact that comprises a collection of indicators to enable the long-term selection of the best RPA solution for each organization and/or business process using the methodological approach of Design Science Research. The artifact offers a methodology to categorize the level of adaptability of each solution for automating business processes, performs a comparative analysis of existing RPA solutions using a particular framework, and provides an overview of the features of currently available solutions on the market. The viability of the artifact is demonstrated using a real-world case situation. This test demonstrated the artifact’s capacity to meet the goals. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2025.
2025
Autores
Santos, S; Santos, V; Mamede, HS;
Publicação
ELECTRONICS
Abstract
Efficient procurement processes are pivotal for strategic performance in digital organizations, requiring continuous refinement driven by automation, integration, and performance monitoring. This research investigates and demonstrates the potential for synergies between RPA and BPM in procurement processes. The primary objective is to analyze and evaluate a manual procurement-intensive process to enhance efficiency, reduce time-consuming interventions, and ultimately diminish costs and cycle time. Employing Design Science Research Methodology, this research yields a practical artifact designed to streamline procurement processes. An artifact was created using BPM methods and RPA tools. The RPA was developed after applying BPM Redesign Heuristics to the current process. A mixed-methods approach was employed for its evaluation, combining quantitative analysis on cycle time reduction with a qualitative Confirmatory Focus Group of department experts. The analysis revealed that the synergy between BPM and RPAs can leverage procurement processes, decreasing cycle times and workload on intensive manual tasks and allowing employees time to focus on other functions. This research contributes valuable insights for organizations seeking to harness automation technologies for enhanced procurement operations, with the findings suggesting promising enduring benefits for both efficiency and accuracy in the procurement lifecycle.
2025
Autores
Moreira, S; Mamede, S; Santos, A;
Publicação
Emerging Science Journal
Abstract
This study aims to develop a methodology to assist Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in effectively adopting Business Process Automation (BPA). Despite its growing importance in streamlining routine tasks and enabling employees to focus on more creative activities, numerous organizations face challenges in implementing BPA due to unclear procedures, insufficient knowledge of eligible processes, and uncertainty regarding the necessary technology. In response to these challenges, we introduce the Methodology for Business Process Automation (M4BPA), an artifact designed to guide SMEs through a structured BPA implementation process. The research follows the Design Science Research Methodology (DSRM). The requirements for the artifact came from the results of a previous Systematic Literature Review (SLR). M4BPA was demonstrated within real SME environments, providing solid evidence of its efficacy. The findings suggest that M4BPA significantly enhances SMEs' ability to implement BPA efficiently, offering a practical toolkit that facilitates the process. The novelty of this work lies in the development of a BPA methodology specifically tailored for SMEs, addressing existing gaps in current frameworks and providing a best-practice model for similar organizations. This research contributes to the intermediate results of a doctoral project, offering valuable insights for both practitioners and researchers in the field of BPA. © 2025 by the authors.
2025
Autores
Santos, G; Silveira, C; Santos, V; Santos, A; Mamede, H;
Publicação
NEW TRENDS IN DISRUPTIVE TECHNOLOGIES, TECH ETHICS AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, DITTET 2025
Abstract
This paper explores the potential of Large Language Models (LLM) to optimize various stages of the software development lifecycle, including requirements elicitation, architecture design, diagram creation, and implementation. The study is grounded in a real-world case, where development time and result quality are compared with and without LLM assistance. This research underscores the possibility of applying prompt patterns in LLM to support and enhance software development activities, focusing on a B2C digital commerce platform centered on fashion retail, designated LUNA. The methodology adopted is Design Science, which follows a practical and iterative approach. Requirements, design suggestions, and code samples are analyzed before and after the application of language models. The results indicate substantial advantages in the development process, such as improved task efficiency, faster identification of requirement gaps, and enhanced code readability. Nevertheless, challenges were observed in interpreting complex business logic. Future work should explore the integration of LLM with domain-specific ontologies and business rule engines to improve contextual accuracy in code and model generation. Additionally, refining prompt engineering strategies and combining LLM with interactive development environments could further enhance code quality, traceability, and explainability.
2025
Autores
Dias, JT; Santos, AMP; Martins, P; Mamede, HS;
Publicação
Communications in Computer and Information Science
Abstract
In recent years, companies have faced increasing pressure from globalization, requiring them to adapt not only to survive but also to thrive in a highly competitive environment. This adaptation has been facilitated by the efficient integration of technology, achieved through digital processes and collaboration tools. Digital transformation has emerged as a critical element for maintaining competitiveness as economies become increasingly digital. To succeed in this ever-evolving environment, companies must balance leveraging existing strengths with seeking new organizational agility. Integrating advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Web Technologies into education and professional training is a strategic response to the challenges posed by the current digital landscape. AI, with its adaptability and automation capabilities, offers benefits such as increased efficiency, personalized learning, and streamlined administrative processes. Continuous evaluation of teaching and learning, along with data extraction and predictive analysis, enhances e-learning quality and informs organizational decisions. This research aims to investigate how advanced technologies can predict and adapt organizational training needs to improve competency development and overall effectiveness. The research adopts a Design Science Research (DSR) methodology, focusing on the development and implementation of an AI-based framework for personalized training recommendations. Expected outcomes include integrating AI-driven predictive models with existing Human Resources Management Systems to identify and address training needs, fostering employee skill development, organizational agility, and competitiveness in a rapidly changing market. Additionally, addressing this issue promotes a more inclusive and empowering work environment, enabling employees to thrive in an increasingly digital world. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.
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