Workflow Node Types

Understanding Workflow Nodes

Nodes are the fundamental building blocks of workflows, each designed for specific purposes and functionality. Each node type has unique properties and capabilities that determine how it behaves within a workflow.

Node Characteristics

• 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
• Execution Logic: Specific behavior when the node is processed

Basic Node Types

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

Start Node

The Start Node serves as the entry point for workflow execution.

• Purpose: Initiates workflow execution
• Properties: Workflow name, description, and trigger conditions
• Behavior: Can only have outgoing connections
• Configuration: Define how the workflow is triggered
• Use Cases: Manual start, scheduled start, event-triggered start

End Node

The End Node marks the completion point of a workflow.

• Purpose: Terminates workflow execution
• Properties: Completion status and final actions
• Behavior: Can only have incoming connections
• Configuration: Define completion criteria and cleanup actions
• Use Cases: Successful completion, error termination, conditional ending

Action Node Types

Action nodes perform specific operations within the workflow.

Inspection Node

Creates and manages inspections within workflows.

• Purpose: Generate inspection tasks and forms
• Properties: Inspection template, assignees, due dates
• Configuration: Define inspection criteria and requirements
• Integration: Connects with the Inspection module
• Use Cases: Quality checks, safety inspections, compliance audits

Task Node

Generates and assigns tasks within workflows.

• Purpose: Create and assign work tasks
• Properties: Task description, assignees, priority, due dates
• Configuration: Define task requirements and completion criteria
• Integration: Connects with the Task Management module
• Use Cases: Work assignments, follow-up tasks, maintenance activities

Approval Node

Requires approvals and signatures within workflows.

• Purpose: Require formal approvals or signatures
• Properties: Approvers, approval criteria, escalation rules
• Configuration: Define approval workflow and conditions
• Integration: Connects with the Approval Management module
• Use Cases: Document approvals, budget approvals, change requests

Email Node

Sends automated emails within workflows.

• Purpose: Send notifications and communications
• Properties: Recipients, email template, subject, content
• Configuration: Define email content and delivery options
• Integration: Connects with the email system
• Use Cases: Notifications, alerts, status updates, reminders

Issue Node

Creates and manages issues within workflows.

• Purpose: Generate and track issues or problems
• Properties: Issue type, severity, assignees, description
• Configuration: Define issue categories and resolution criteria
• Integration: Connects with the Issue Management module
• Use Cases: Problem reporting, incident management, defect tracking

Node Connections and Flow

Understanding how nodes connect and flow is essential for workflow design.

Connection Types

• Sequential Connections: Linear flow from one node to the next
• Conditional Connections: Flow based on decision outcomes
• Parallel Connections: Multiple simultaneous execution paths
• Loop Connections: Repeated execution of node sequences

Flow Control

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

Best Practices for Node Usage

Follow these best practices to effectively use different node types:

Node Selection

• Choose Appropriate Types: Select nodes that match your requirements
• Consider Complexity: Balance functionality with simplicity
• Plan Connections: Design clear and logical flow paths
• Test Thoroughly: Validate node behavior and connections

Configuration Guidelines

• Clear Naming: Use descriptive names for nodes
• Proper Documentation: Document node purpose and configuration
• Error Handling: Include appropriate error handling mechanisms
• Performance Considerations: Optimize for efficiency and speed

Next Steps

Now that you understand node types, you can:

• Explore User Interface: Learn how to use the workflow design interface
• Study Workflow Management: Understand workflow management operations
• Create Workflows: Start building workflows with different node types
• Advanced Configuration: Explore advanced node configuration options

Understanding different node types is fundamental to creating effective workflows. Each node type serves a specific purpose and contributes to the overall workflow functionality. Use this knowledge to design workflows that meet your business requirements efficiently.