What Are Workflow Management Rules?

What Are Workflow Management Rules?

Workflow management rules are a set or policies and processes that govern the execution of a workflow. They determine which steps should be completed and when. This lets the process follow the most efficient route. When a business uses a well-organized workflow to automate its most repetitive and predictable tasks, it frees employees’ time to concentrate on strategic tasks.

Workflows can be created in many formats to meet the needs of any project. For instance, a sequential workflow is one that requires that the next stage cannot begin until the previous task is completed. This is common in expense management workflows, where reimbursement of employees requires receipt submission and payment authorization.

A state-machine workflow is an arrangement of tasks on a product in a certain sequence, with each step shifting the work product into different https://managingworkflow.org/ states, like “being written” or “completed”. State-machine workflows may also have additional rules in place – like if-this-then-that conditional logic, which determines the workflow’s route.

Finally, parallel workflows have multiple steps that can be performed simultaneously toward a final objective, for example, sending an item to a customer after the company has confirmed it’s available. They can all be automated by an application for workflow.

It’s simple to use the appropriate workflow management software that allows you to create and manage structured process to optimize effectiveness, accountability and productivity. By streamlining communication, and ensuring that everyone in the team is aware of their responsibilities and roles, and have a clear outline of their roles, managers can eliminate the confusion that leads to delays in projects and deadlines.