What is the recommended number of alternate stages in a business process?

The recommended number of alternate stages in a business process being 3-5 stages is grounded in ensuring that the process remains manageable and efficient. Having this number of stages allows for adequate flexibility in the business process for handling variations and exceptions while preventing it from becoming too complex.

Three to five alternate stages can accommodate different pathways based on various conditions or outcomes, enabling a balance between comprehensive coverage of scenarios and maintainability. This range helps ensure that each alternate stage has enough substance to address specific business needs without overwhelming the process with too many choices, which can lead to confusion and inefficiency.

While other ranges may suggest fewer or more stages, the 3-5 stage recommendation provides a balanced framework that is often seen as being optimal for most business processes. It allows organizations to define alternate paths effectively without complicating the decision-making processes involved, making it easier for users to navigate through the workflow.