Subject Matter Expert

Intro

A Subject Matter Expert (SME) is a designated expert in a specific domain. In EA and BPM, SMEs provide deep process and business knowledge to ensure accuracy and feasibility.

Key points:

• Brings domain insights that de-risk designs.
• Validates requirements, models, and controls.
• Common use cases across EA/BPM/Data/App/Tech include process discovery, data definitions, and control design.
• Pitfall: relying on a single SME without peer review or documentation.

Examples:

• Claims SME validates insurance process models.
• Data SME defines critical data elements and lineage.
• Security SME reviews integration patterns for compliance.

In practice:

Engage SMEs early, document decisions, and rotate reviews to reduce single‑point dependency.

Related terms: Stakeholder; Process Modeling; Governance

FAQs:

Q: Are SMEs decision makers?
A: They advise and validate; decision rights depend on governance.

Q: How many SMEs are needed?
A: Enough to cover key domains and provide independent review.

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