Continuous Improvement of Workflow Models Using an Explorative Learning Environment Heimo H. Adelsberger heimo@dec1.wi-inf.uni-essen.de Frank X. Körner koerner@wi-inf.uni-essen.de Jan M. Pawlowski jan.pawlowski@wi-inf.uni-essen.de Information Systems for Production and Operations Management, University of Essen, Germany. Abstract Facing rapidly changing market conditions new requirements for information and communication technologies have arisen in the last years. This paper presents a new approach to integrate computer supported learning environments and workflow management systems to optimize workflows. The first step is the integration of learning processes into workflow models. This enables an easy development of explorative learning environments, particularly simulation games which are used to train users on basic and advanced levels. Solutions developed by the users are evaluated and transformed into process models which might improve current processes. The presented integration approach offers important synergy effects: a substantial improvement of the individual educational level, a new concept of employee participation, and an essential increase of continuous process improvement. 1 Introduction The increasing relevance of flexibility and adaptability to rapidly changing market conditions leads to distinctive requirements for information and communication technology as well as for organizational concepts. In this paper we focus on the integration of Computer Supported Learning Environments (CSLE) and Workflow Management Systems (WfMS). Both are influenced by the requirements of continuous changes. On the one hand, WfMS are affected because these systems manage and control the processes of value creation. Obviously, these processes have to be immediately adjusted according to required changes. On the other hand, it is essential to work with well-educated employees who are able to carry out both the current and modified processes. For this reason CSLE are so important. In previous work we have demonstrated the need of an integration of WfMS and CSLE (See [Adelsberger, Körner, Pawlowski 98a] and [Adelsberger, Körner, Pawlowski 98b]). In this paper we introduce the idea of an integrative approach using simulation games for the optimization of adaptive workflows. We demonstrate the particular suitability of an explorative learning environment. During the normal use of WfMS improvements are detected and realized during explicit (internal or external) projects. This procedure corresponds to adaptable processes or workflows; it is not necessarily a continuous improvement process. Integrating an explorative CSLE into the WfMS enables to continuously realize hidden optimization potentials exposed during the learning process using the real information system and real data. Thus, the integration approach offers two important advantages: an substantial improvement of the individual educational level and an essential increase of continuous process improvement.