What Are Workflow Management Rules?
Workflow management rules are a set or policies and procedures that regulate the process of completing a workflow. They specify the steps that should be performed and when it is possible to follow the most efficient path to its conclusion. When a company automatizes its most routine and predictable tasks through a structured workflow that allows employees to concentrate on strategic goals.
Workflows can be created in different formats to meet the needs of any project. For instance the term “sequential workflow” refers to one in which the following step is not able to begin until the prior task is completed. This is a common feature in expense management workflows, where employee reimbursement requires receipts to be submitted and authorization for payment.
A state-machine workflow is a sequence of actions performed on a product that are performed in a predetermined order, with each step moving the work product into different allowed states such as “being written” or “completed”. State-machine work flows can also include additional rules, for instance if-this then-that conditional logic, which determine the flow of the process.
Parallel workflows allow multiple steps to be carried out simultaneously towards a goal, like processing and mailing an item to a customer after the company has confirmed that it is in stock. All of these can be automated by the help of a workflow software.
With the right workflow management tools it’s simple to create and manage processes that are structured to maximize productivity, accountability, and efficiency. By streamlining communication and making sure that all team members are aware of their roles and responsibilities, and have a clear understanding of their responsibilities, managers can reduce the confusion that leads to a lack of focus and deadlines.