Getting Started with Workflows

Accessing Workflows

The Workflow module is accessible through the main navigation menu and provides a comprehensive interface for creating, managing, and executing complex business processes.

Navigation Steps

Main Menu Access: Navigate to the Workflows section from the main menu
Workflow List: View existing workflows in the workflow list
Create New Workflows: Create new workflows or edit existing ones

Workflow Management Interface

The workflow management interface provides tools for viewing, creating, editing, and managing workflows effectively.

Workflow List Features

View All Workflows: See all created workflows in a comprehensive list
Edit Workflow: Modify workflow configuration and settings
Delete Workflow: Remove workflows from the system when no longer needed
Search and Filter: Find specific workflows using search and filtering options

Workflow Components

Understanding the core components of workflows is essential for effective workflow design and management.

Core Elements

Workflow Definition: The overall structure and configuration of the workflow
Name: Unique identifier for the workflow
Nodes: Individual workflow steps that perform specific actions
Edges: Connections between nodes that define workflow flow
Properties: Configuration settings for the workflow

Workflow Nodes

Nodes are the building blocks of workflows, each representing a specific action or decision point.

Visual Representation: Each node represents a workflow step with visual indicators
Type-specific Properties: Different settings for each node type
Position: Location in the workflow canvas
Connections: Input and output handles for connections to other nodes

Workflow Edges

Edges define the flow and connections between workflow nodes.

Source Node: Starting point of the connection
Destination Node: Ending point of the connection
Conditions: Decision logic for routing between nodes
Flow Control: Direction of process execution

Node Types Overview

The workflow system includes various node types, each designed for specific purposes and functionality.

Basic Node Types

Start Node: Entry point for workflow execution
End Node: Workflow completion point
Inspection Node: Create and manage inspections within workflows
Task Node: Generate and assign tasks within workflows
Approval Node: Require approvals and signatures within workflows
Decision Node: Create conditional logic and branching in workflows
Email Node: Send automated emails within workflows
Issue Node: Create and manage issues within workflows

System Architecture

The Workflow module is built on a robust architecture that supports complex workflow execution and provides reliable automation capabilities.

Core Components

Workflow Engine: Handles workflow execution and processing
Node Processor: Processes individual workflow nodes
Condition Evaluator: Evaluates conditional logic and routing
Integration Engine: Handles integration with other modules
Notification System: Manages workflow notifications and alerts
Audit Trail: Tracks workflow execution and changes

Data Flow

Workflow Trigger: Workflow is initiated by a trigger event
Node Execution: Each node is processed according to its configuration
Condition Evaluation: Conditions are evaluated to determine next steps
Integration Actions: Actions are performed with other modules
Notification Sending: Notifications are sent to relevant parties
Status Updates: Workflow and related item statuses are updated
Completion: Workflow completes and final actions are performed

User Interface Overview

The workflow interface is designed to be intuitive and powerful, providing easy access to all workflow features while supporting complex workflow design.

Main Interface Elements

Workflow List: Displays all workflows with management options
Workflow Designer: Visual drag-and-drop interface for creating workflows
Node Library: Collection of available node types
Properties Panel: Configuration options for selected elements
Canvas: Main workspace for designing workflows
Toolbar: Tools for workflow management and design

Navigation Structure

Workflow Overview: List of all workflows with status and management options
Create Workflow: Step-by-step workflow creation wizard
Workflow Designer: Full-featured workflow editing interface
Node Configuration: Detailed node setup and customization options
Execution Monitoring: Monitor workflow execution and status
Settings & Configuration: Workflow system settings and preferences

Getting Started Checklist

Follow this checklist to get started with Workflows effectively:

Prerequisites

✓ Ensure you have workflow permissions
✓ Familiarize yourself with your organization's business processes
✓ Understand the different node types and their purposes
✓ Review existing workflows and templates

Initial Setup

✓ Access the Workflow module
✓ Review the workflow list and existing workflows
✓ Understand the workflow management interface
✓ Learn about workflow components and node types

First Workflow Creation

✓ Plan your workflow structure and flow
✓ Create a simple workflow with basic nodes
✓ Configure node properties and settings
✓ Set up connections between nodes
✓ Test the workflow execution

Advanced Configuration

✓ Explore different node types and their capabilities
✓ Implement conditional logic and branching
✓ Set up integration with other modules
✓ Configure notifications and alerts
✓ Optimize workflow performance and efficiency

Next Steps

Now that you understand the basics of Workflows, you can:

Explore Workflow Management: Learn about the workflow management interface and operations
Study Node Types: Understand different node types and their configuration options
Design Workflows: Use the visual workflow builder to create your first workflows
Configure Execution: Set up workflow execution and monitoring

The Workflow module provides powerful tools for automating business processes and managing complex workflows. Start with simple workflows and gradually explore more advanced features as you become comfortable with the system capabilities.