Understanding Workflows

Workflows occur across every kind of business and industry. Anytime data is passed between humans and/or systems, a workflow is created. Workflows are the paths that describe how something goes from being undone to done, or raw to processed. It describes the sequence of tasks that processes a set of data.

There are typically three types of workflows that are present in an organization – process workflows, case workflows, and project workflows.

Process Workflow

A process workflow happens when the set of tasks is predictable and repetitive. This means that before an item begins the workflow, you know exactly what path it takes.

Case Workflow

In a case workflow, you don’t know the path required to complete the item at the start. The path reveals itself as more data is gathered. Support tickets and insurance claims are good examples of cases.

Project Workflow

Projects have a structured path similar to processes, but there may be more flexibility along the way. You can predict with good accuracy the sequence of tasks required to complete the project, however, the next project workflow will not likely follow exactly the previous path.

Workflows help streamline and automate repeatable business tasks, minimizing room for errors and increasing overall efficiency. Identifying them, articulating them, and then improving them, can help your organization function more effectively and efficiently.