APQC Process Classification Framework 5.1

Mark Di Girolamo

Process Classification Framework (PCF)

 

As APQC’s membership grew along with global attention to best practices, it became clear that there was no common language to describe organizational processes. With dozens of different ways of referencing the functions and processes, measurement and benchmarking were impossible to do in a systematic fashion. APQC set out to solve this problem, and in collaboration with expert and practitioner panels introduced the Process Classification FrameworkSM (PCF) in 1992.

 

Today, the PCF is the world’s most widely used process framework and allows organizations to speak a common language about functions, processes, and activities independent of structure. Updated annually the PCF is organized into 12 distinct categories, including five categories of operating areas and seven of support areas. Each category contains groups of processes and activities that, when considered as a whole, represent the operations of an organization. The frameworks are available in cross-industry and select industry-specific formats

 

ADVANTAGES OF USING THE PROCESS CLASSIFICATION FRAMEWORK

 

Better Benchmarking

Adopting the PCF as a standard process language accelerates benchmarking efforts and ensures relevant data for real improvement. The cross-industry version allows for performance comparisons among all organizations, whereas the industry-specific PCFs facilitate targeted, peer-to-peer measurement. Learn about APQC’s benchmarking tools and services.

 

Standardization and Measurement

Organizations anywhere in the world beginning internal process standardization or measurement initiatives can use the PCF as a checklist to map current processes, identify key performance indicators, and replicate processes across the enterprise for optimum efficiency.

 

Governance and Accountability

Providing a common structure allows managers to hold employees accountable for specific activities. Combining this accountability with key performance indicators renders a very solid governance tool for any organization.