A “Rework loop” is a concept in Process Mining that refers to when a specific activity is being returned to an earlier stage in the process due to errors or defects. “Rework loops” can be identified easily by using process mining techniques and solutions such as Process discovery, Conformance checking  and Performance analysis (used also while detecting wastes).

In process discovery, rework loops can be found by analyzing the process flow and identifying cases where the same activity is repeated multiple times (similar to Process Steps Repetitions but not in a row). This can be an indication of errors or defects that are causing work to be returned to an earlier stage in the process.

In conformance checking, rework loops can be found by comparing the actual process (“as is”) with a predefined process model (designed into the BPM for example) and identifying deviations. This can be used to identify errors or defects that are causing work to be returned to an earlier stage in the process.

In performance analysis, rework loops can be identified by analyzing the process performance metrics (like cycle time, lead time and process flow efficiency) and identifying which activities or steps in the process are causing delays or bottlenecks. This can be used to identify errors or defects that are causing work to be returned to an earlier stage in the process.

In any case the “Rework Loop” behavior is a common problem in process management, and Process Mining. Hopefully it’s pretty easy to identify it and to find ways to improve the process and reduce the rework.