I agree with other reviewers who question the designation "workbook." Actually, what we have here is a book which suggests the work which each reader must complete with regard to the documentation, analysis, design, and management of business process improvement. It provides no head-snapping revelations, nor do its co-authors claim to offer any. Obviously, it is important to improve performance continuously by improving various processes during which tasks are completed. It is also important to measure only what matters. Finally, all organizations (regardless of size or nature) must develop leaders at all levels and within all areas who drive change initiatives to achieve these objectives. Harrington, Esseling, and van Nimwegen offer a comprehensive, cohesive, and cost-effective methodology. Once having identified the "what," they focus on "how."
As the authors explain, Business Process Improvement (BPI) consists of four different approaches designed to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and adaptability of administrative processes: Fast Analysis Solution Technique (FAST), process benchmarking, process redesign, and process reengineering. They recommend a six-phase process that leads to the implementation of the best-value future-state solution: Organization, Documentation, Analysis, Design, Implementation, and Management. They then focus on each approach and each phase, suggesting similarities and differences between and among them.
I would have rated this book even higher had the presentation of the material been more "reader-friendly." By the time I reached Chapter 5 on page 167, the monotonous tone of the narrative to that point made it difficult for me to sustain my concentration. I always appreciate the provision of checklists, for example, because they organize and summarize key points, and, because they facilitate (indeed expedite) review of them later. To repeat, the material is solid. The authors obviously know what they are talking about. Their observations are based on real-world situations. Their suggestions are sensible. That said, this reader (at least) had to work much too hard to locate, absorb, and then digest the authors' core concepts.
No doubt other readers will find the material more accessible. My guess (only a guess) is that many of those who do will be C-level executives in larger organizations who already know much more about BPI than I do. I wish them and their associates well, hoping they can effectively apply -- and then have their organization benefit substantially from -- what Harrington, Esseling, and van Nimwegen offer.