Process Frameworks
Process frameworks are essentially lists of all the key processes performed in an organization, grouped hierarchically to show how they relate to each other. If you’re looking to benchmark, manage content, or define business processes, process frameworks save you time and effort by providing a basis on which to build. APQC’s Process Classification Framework (PCF)® is a reliable and robust framework used by hundreds of leading companies worldwide. Watch the introduction video to learn more.
Download PCF Version 7.3.1
APQC’s Process Classification Framework (PCF)® is a taxonomy of business processes that allows organizations to objectively track and compare their performance internally and externally with organizations from any industry. It also forms the basis for a variety of projects related to business processes.. Developed in 1992, the PCF is the world’s most widely used business process framework.
Download the latest version of the Cross-Industry PCFStart here...
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Learn About the PCF
Learn what the PCF is, why organizations use it, the difference between cross-industry and industry-specific PCFs, and how to access process definitions and metrics for processes in the PCF.
Understand the PCF
Understand the PCF’s structure and key elements, as well as the different formats and versions of the PCF.
Apply the PCF
Discover three ways organizations use the PCF to create business value: benchmarking, content management, and process management.
Industry-Specific PCFs
In addition to the cross-industry PCF, APQC provides additional versions of the PCF that include industry-specific processes and nuances.
Learn about our recently updated, Banking and Property & Casualty Insurance Frameworks in our new blog, New Simpler PCF For Banking and Property and Casualty Insurance.
Process Definitions
APQC's Process Classification Framework contains hundreds of processes. To help you understand these processes, APQC has created definitions that tie to each process in the PCF.
Each process category has it's own document with detailed definitions and key measures for each process to help organizations identify and align their activities with global terminology. The documents also provide key performance indicators that APQC recommends for measuring and tracking the performance of each process group.
The PCF Helps Deliver Better Process Management
Get an introduction to APQC’s Process Classification Framework® and learn how it creates a common language so your organization can improve process management.
Navigating the PCF
In this video, APQC's Jonathan Kraft navigates APQC’s Process Classification Framework (PCF)®, showing you how to access it, the different versions available, and how to put it into action to improve your processes.
How to Use the PCF
Jonathan Kraft, Manager of Open Standards Benchmarking at APQC, explains the five use cases for the Process Classification Framework (PCF)®.
See How Leading Organizations are Using the PCF
Read these case studies to find out how leading organizations across a range of industries use the PCF as a foundation and common language to help them develop and manage standardized processes.
Looking for training?
In this course, the structure, core principles, and use of frameworks will be studied with examples from real organizations. The necessary skills to select, design, and apply process frameworks for a myriad of value-driven purposes will also be discussed. You will also learn how to adopt or tailor a process framework for your organization, including APQC's own Process Classification Framework®, and apply a process framework within your organization to improve process management, content management, and benchmarking. As an IACET Accredited Provider, APQC offers .4 IACET CEUs for its this course that comply with the ANSI/IACET Continuing Education and Training Standard.
APQC’s PCF LinkedIn Community
With nearly 3,000 members, the APQC PCF LinkedIn Community is an active forum for PCF users around the world. Ask questions, network, share best practices, and get advice on how to get the most out of the PCF from APQC experts and fellow practitioners.
APQC's process management resources - the PCF and case studies - have given us a foundation that we need in order to transition smoothly to the next phase of our process management work.
Let Our Experts Guide Your Continuous Improvement Journey
Contact Our Advisory Services DirectorAPQC Advisory Services
Whether you’re just getting started on your continuous improvement journey or need guidance to address governance and oversight issues, our Advisory Services team can help you get the most out of your efforts. Our process and knowledge management consultants have helped hundreds of organizations worldwide apply APQC’s research and tools to improve performance and realize their business goals.
To learn more, contact our advisory services director:
