Developing the Business Modelling Method

Currently, business modelling is an art, instead of a science, as no scientific method for business modelling exists. This, and the lack of using business models altogether, causes many projects to end after the pilot stage, unable to fulfil their apparent promise. We propose a structured method to create “as-is” business models in a repeatable manner. The method consists of the following steps: identify the involved roles, recognize relations among roles, specify the main activities, and quantify using realistic estimates of the model. The resulting business model is suitable for analysis of the current situation. This is the basis for further predictions, for example business cases, scenarios, and alternative innovations. We offer two extra steps to develop these innovations and analyse alternatives. Using them may enable successful projects to be implemented, instead of ending on a shelf after the pilot stage.