In today's lean terminology, what are processes associated with non-manufacturing areas of business referred to as?

In lean terminology, processes associated with non-manufacturing areas of business are often referred to as transactional processes. This designation emphasizes the activities involved in the management of data, information, and workflow that support various business functions outside of traditional production settings. Transactional processes include tasks related to administrative functions, customer service, finance, human resources, and more, focusing on the smooth flow of transactions or information exchange rather than the physical creation of products.

While support processes can also refer to activities that aid in overall business operations, they are not solely confined to non-manufacturing areas. Production processes are specifically centered on the actual creation and manufacturing of goods, whereas operational processes encompass both manufacturing and non-manufacturing activities but do not highlight the transaction aspect as clearly as transactional processes do. Thus, referring to these activities as transactional processes accurately captures their role in enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in non-manufacturing domains.