Schedule optimization is an effective strategy to improve the performance of batch process operations, especially in multi-purpose and multi-product facilities. In large segments of the batch process industry, however. disturbances necessitate constant rescheduling. Any improvement strategy must therefore include a strategy for dealing with disturbances. This paper presents a framework for disturbance management in the batch process industry, aimed at identifying causes and consequences of disturbances, so that the causes may be eliminated and negative consequences may be reduced. The framework is designed to draw an integrated picture of those parts of the process and the business organization that contribute to disturbances, and to be applicable to any batch process. Its effectiveness as a diagnosing instrument was tested and confirmed in the steel industry.