A workflow is an automated business process that routes information and tasks between participants according to a defined set of procedures or rules designed to coordinate a specific business goal. Workflows are primarily characterized by their level of procedural automation involving one or more dynamic related series of processes, and their combination of human and machine-based tasks involving interaction with software and systems.
The following industry segments, marked by relatively high office labor costs and transaction volume, have demonstrated successful workflow implementations:
- Insurance
- Banking
- Legal
- General & Administrative
- Design
- Engineering
- Manufacturing
Business process modeling and workflow automation allow transactions to be conducted electronically without the need for manual intervention such as conducting certain validations or re-keying data. When workflow IT systems are processing repetitive, mundane, and often error-prone work, talented staff resources become available to handle activities that add real value to the enterprise.