A Novel Contextualization Method for Process Discovery Using Activity Specialization Hierarchies

While context information has been demonstrated to be essential in understanding processes, the use of context in process discovery techniques is still very limited. This paper proposes a novel process discovery method that improves process analysis through the definition and exploitation of activity specialization hierarchies. Our method includes strategies for extracting process models by flexibly incorporating contextual information into process activities, allowing for seamless transitions across different levels of contextual detail. We use a real case study on bees’ foraging to show how activity specialization hierarchies can help in contextualizing the discovered processes. This integrated method provides a comprehensive framework for contextualized process analysis, offering practical insights for both researchers and practitioners seeking to analyze processes whose execution varies depending on their context.