Workflow management rules are the set of procedures and policies that govern the manner in which workflows are executed. They determine what steps should be performed and when, allowing the process to follow the most efficient way to the end. If a company uses an organized workflow to automate its most repetitive and predictable tasks, it frees up employees’ time to concentrate on strategic projects.

Workflows are offered in various formats that can be used for any project. A sequential workflow, as an example one that is sequential, means that the next task is not able to begin until the previous one is completed. This is a typical workflow in expense management, where employees are reimbursed by receipts and authorization to pay.

A state-machine workflow is a sequence of tasks on a product in a specific order, with each action taking the work product into different permitted states like “being written” or “completed”. Workflows for state-machine workflows can also include additional rules, for instance the if-this-then-that logic, which determines the course of the process.

Parallel workflows allow several steps to be performed in parallel to accomplish a goal such as processing and mailing an item to a client after the company has confirmed that it is available. They can all be automated by an application for workflow.

It’s easy to use the right workflow management software that allows you to create and manage structured process to maximize efficiency, accountability, and productivity. By streamlining communication, and ensuring that everyone in the team is aware of their responsibilities and roles and are aware of their roles, managers can eliminate the confusion that leads to deadlines and projects being missed.

www.managingworkflow.org/