What is meant by the term workflow solutions?
In its textbook definition, workflow refers to various external factors that come together and facilitate the movement of things and ideas in a predetermined way. It’s basically how workflows depending on pre-set rules and ideas that have been put in place to improve and maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of the workplace.
Workflow solutions definition refers to the various solutions that one may come across when trying to manage the workflow of their surroundings. It’s no secret that better management always leads to effectiveness and efficiency, and a proper solution of a similar nature will go a long way in ensuring that the best of everything is made available to the end customer when they need it.
There are various types of workflows when one looks at the broader categorization.
They are :
- Linear workflow
Linear in its most basic of definitions means when things go step by step. That means the progression is along with a predetermined plan, usually like a line and is also where once the progress moves to a certain stage, it doesn’t go back to the previous one.
- State Machine Workflow
Here, a predetermined point is called a “state”. This state is then used as a reference point to which all the other progress is made. Unlike linear flow, however, one gets the chance to go back to a previous stage in this workflow in case they feel the need to do so.
- Rule driven workflow
As the name suggests, this workflow has a set of driven parameters and rules it needs to follow. These rules may vary and can range from necessary data captures to automatic task assignments along with a host of other alternative actions available for one to choose from.
Where did the concept of workflow originate?
Because of its nature of ensuring previous tasks are successfully completed and done before moving on to the next stage, the concept of workflow originated in the manufacturing sector, where the process needs the fulfillment of one particular task before moving on to deal with another. This was important as in a sector as competitive as manufacturing, it was important to
- Improve your efficiency to reduce unnecessary wastage
- Get better responsiveness as that’ll allow you to better work with what you have
- Increase transparency in the workplace
- Ensure greater profitability as better returns can be earned on an investment.