Systems
Workflow
Plain English
The steps needed to get something done.
Definition
A workflow is a defined sequence of tasks or steps required to complete a glossaryProcessA process is a defined sequence of steps used to achieve a specific outcome.Open glossary term.
In practice
Used to organise how work moves through glossarySystemA system is a collection of interconnected components that work together to achieve a specific function or outcome.Open glossary term, teams, or glossaryProcessA process is a defined sequence of steps used to achieve a specific outcome.Open glossary term, often involving glossaryAutomationAutomation is the use of technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention.Open glossary term and approvals.
In context
It is what people describe when you ask how something gets done, and it is almost never what actually happens. The documented workflow and the real one diverge at the first exception.
The reality
Workflows often become more complex over time, especially as exceptions and glossaryEdge CaseAn edge case is a rare or extreme scenario that falls outside typical user behaviour.Open glossary term are added.
Compared with
Workflow vs Process
A glossaryProcessA process is a defined sequence of steps used to achieve a specific outcome.Open glossary term is the broader glossarySystemA system is a collection of interconnected components that work together to achieve a specific function or outcome.Open glossary term of activity, often crossing teams. A workflow is a defined sequence of steps within it, usually with a clear start and finish. Processes are described; workflows can be automated.
FAQ
Common questions
A few practical answers to the questions that usually come up around this term.
What is a workflow?
It is a sequence of steps required to complete a task or glossaryProcessA process is a defined sequence of steps used to achieve a specific outcome.Open glossary term.
Why are workflows important?
They provide structure and glossaryConsistencyConsistency is the use of uniform patterns, behaviours, and visual elements across a product to create familiarity and predictability. It helps users learn once and apply that knowledge throughout the experience.Open glossary term in how work is done.
What is a workflow in automation?
It is an automated sequence of tasks triggered by events or conditions.
What makes a good workflow?
glossaryClarityClarity is how easily users can understand what is happening and what they need to do.Open glossary term, glossaryEfficiencyEfficiency measures how quickly and easily users can complete tasks once they are familiar with a system.Open glossary term, and minimal unnecessary steps.
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