Goal definition is extremely important and the effects can be seen throughout the evaluation process.

For example, Business Process Management Systems (BPMS) differ widely in terms of scope and functionality. Therefore, it proves absolutely necessary to clearly define what the BPMS is to be used for.

Goal definition typically constitutes a sub-process in its own right and involves several process steps. Typical process steps are:

• Description of current weaknesses and deficiencies
• Description of the target state
  
• Analysis of systems that would benefit if the target state was reached
  

Naturally, the process may involve intensive discussion at various levels.

Once the stakeholder(s) has/have developed a clear-cut vision of what a prospective solution should accomplish, the vision needs to be moulded into a well-defined goal (which, of course, may be subdivided into a set of lower-level goals).