Workflow is a term generally used to describe the method of binding business processes together with business rules. Simple workflows like expense claim approvals are seen in many office products. Typically, a user fills in an on-line form detailing their expenses for the month. Once submitted, a message is sent to a manager advising that there is an expenses claim needing appproval, clicking on a link takes the manager to an approval screen where the item is selected from a list, the details displayed and the manager has a choice of actions to approve, decline or refer.

Complex workflows are used to describe the various paths that can be taken in moving from one step to the next in a chain of related business processes. The business rules determine what happens when a decision point or branch is reached. Every possible outcome has to be identified and an appropriate action identified.

The example below shows how the expenses claim would look if set out as an Activity Diagram. Even a simple case such as this can appear to get complex when every scenario is considered. For amore complex process, please click here for a example of the workflow diagram developed by stpsolutions showing all of the interactions between lawyers acting for the Buyers and Sellers when using PISCES electronic messaging standards in the conveyancing of residential property in England & Wales.