Workflow can be described simply as the movement of documents and tasks through a business process. Workflow can be a sequential progression of work activities or a complex set of processes each taking place concurrently, eventually impacting each other according to a set of rules, routes, and roles.

A number of process-modeling techniques are available to define the detailed routing and processing requirements of a typical workflow. An example of one such method, called the Decision-chain process model, is shown in figure 1. This technique uses milestones and decision points to map out the process. In figure 2, the Event-flow process model depicts the process as a chain of manual and automatic events and allows for the inclusion of considerable detail.

Figure 1. Decision-chain Process Model 4⁴

Simulation, Prototyping and Piloting: Some systems allow workflow simulation or create prototype and/or pilot versions of a particular workflow before it goes into production.

Figure 2. Event-flow Process Model⁵