Before considering the design process in operation within a business it is useful to consider the level of process thinking across all business activities. Sometimes a business will only recognise more 'physical' activities such as production as processes. In other organisations 'non physical' aspects of business activity have been identified as being a process, for example the process of ensuring quality in all business operations. If a business does not consider any of its activities to be a process it will be difficult to identify where design might fit within the business.

Evidence that might be accessed

Does the business understand how its activities can be managed and improved if they are identified as processes?

Level 1
The business does not recognise any of its activities as processes

Level 2
The business recognises some of its more 'physical' activities as processes (e.g. production & purchasing)

Level 3
The business has identified processes within a majority of its activities

Level 4
The business has identified processes and is actively engaged in their continuous improvement