Hello, everybody:
I've recently become acquainted with some excellent software products developed by Synthis Corporation in Atlanta. The main products are called the Synthis Process Modeler and the Synthis Product Server. They are both quite impressive. In fact, a number of my consulting customers in the Southeast (Sara Lee Corporation, U.S. Can Company, among others) have purchased the Synthis products and are seeing good results. Here are the highlights of the Synthis Process Modeler and Synthis Process Server:
Synthis Process Modeler
This is an integrated flowcharting and documentation package. It enables an organization to visually map their processes, link process maps directly to supporting documentation (such as Word files), and assign process ownership. The Process Modeler makes it easy to build a layered, visual management system that can be easily maintained and improved. Each process is represented by a "clickable" process map that can be navigated like you would surf the web. The software is so simple and intuitive that a child can create and use the process maps.
Possibly the biggest benefit of the Process Modeler is that it facilitates a completed integrated sequence of processes. The management system is no longer a set of individual flow charts, but a dynamic representation of how the organization works together. In essence, you end up developing a "live model" of your business. As such, the software enables you to see the ripple effect of changing one process - the implications of change become immediately apparent. The Process Modeler helps you proactively manage change before it bites you in the rump. It's worth noting that the Process Modeler doesn't run hypothetical simulations like some other modeling tools; it is querying against your current state business processes, producing real results and helping you proactively manage risks.
Synthis Process Server
This is a document control application that is loaded directly on your organization's server. It simplifies and expedites all aspects of document control. The Process Server facilitates document creation, review, approval, distribution, revision, and document history. As changes are approved and implemented, the software automatically makes the appropriate updates and maintains a complete history that is readily accessible to regulators, auditors and employees as needed. It's really a one-stop solution, and it works especially well with the Process Modeler. All the document control requirements dictated by ISO and Sarbanes-Oxley are addressed and covered.
Managing all document control seamless and electronically has significant benefits. There is an immediate return on investment by eliminating unnecessary document administration. I have been told by one Synthis customer that they achieved as much as a 50% reduction in the amount of time spent creating and maintaining up-to-date process documentation. This is real money being saved because of less bureaucracy and tail-chasing. The Synthis Process Modeler and Synthis Process Server both have quick and clear paybacks. The both come be purchased in a bundled version called the Synthis Process Excellence Suite.
Drawbacks
There are a handful of minor drawbacks that I've observed. The Synthis Process Modeler is not equipped to do things like detailed process simulations. Instead of supporting the more technical aspects of process modeling, Synthis is keeping their product focused on making it easy to create and share integrated process documentation. Also, the Synthis Process Server does not provide all of the advanced capabilities found in more expensive enterprise content management (ECM) systems such as web content management, document imaging, and records management. If you need these features and have the money, check-out Documentum, FileNet, and OpenText. On the flip-side Synthis is much easier to implement, use and maintain, and much more affordable. These are minor drawbacks and I believe they are more than offset by the benefits.
You can go to the Synthis website to learn more about their products:
http://www.synthis.com.
You can also download a free evaluation copy of Synthis Process Modeler here:
http://www.synthis.com/products/proc...troduction.jsp
You will see instructions on how to obtain a key.
The guys who run Synthis Corporation are affiliated with Georgia Tech's Advanced Technology Development Center. They're good guys who are truly trying to help companies become more successful. You can contact them directly if you'd like:
Andy Ibbotson, President
Email:
andrew.ibbotson@synthis.com
Phone: 404-526-6148
Mike Abarelli, V.P. of Business Development
Email:
mike.abarelli@synthis.com
Phone: 404-526-6142
Craig
Synthis software review - Process Modeler and Process Server
Sample Process Map
Linear Mode
