Workflow automation enables organizations to create automated "production lines" for software-based information processing, dramatically reducing the

time and cost required to deliver information, goods, and services to customers.

Workflow is a concept closely related to reengineering and automating business and information processes in an organization. A workflow may describe business process tasks at a conceptual level necessary for understanding, evaluating, and redesigning the business process. On the other hand, workflows may capture information process tasks at a level that describes the process requirements for information system functionality and human skills. The distinction between these workflow perspectives is not always made, and sometimes the term workflow is used to describe either, or both, of the business and information systems perspectives. Workflow management (WFM) is a technology supporting the reengineering of business and information processes. It involves: 1. defining workflows, i.e., describing those aspects of a process that are relevant to controlling and coordinating the execution of its tasks (and possibly the skills of individuals or information systems required to perform each task), and 2. providing for fast (re)design and (re)implementation of the processes as business needs and information systems change

We define a workflow as a collection of tasks organized to accomplish some business process (e.g., processing purchase orders over the phone, provisioning telephone service, processing insurance claims). A task can be performed by one or more software systems, one or a team of humans, or a combination of these. Human tasks include interacting with computers closely (e.g., providing input commands) or loosely (e.g., using computers only to indicate task progress). Examples of tasks include updating a file or database, generating or mailing a bill, and laying a cable. In addition to a collection of tasks, a workflow defines the order of task invocation or condition(s) under which tasks must be invoked, task synchronization, and information flow (dataflow).
Workflow can be defined as the process of completing a series of tasks. A workflow can be very simple and include one person, or it could be a sophisticated and dynamic series of processes among many people, groups or departments. Traditionally forms are created to be part of a workflow. For example, a job application form or purchase order are both forms that represent workflows. These forms are given to someone to complete and are then routed to recipients for review, approval or other actions.

In a paper-based environment, the tasks of routing and delivering the form are done manually. When a specific procedure is not documented or followed, often a required step or task is not completed or the form is sent to the wrong person. Errors such as these are time-consuming and expensive.

Workflow management and automation software improves the process enterprise. Workflow: The movement of documents and/or tasks through a work process; how tasks are structured, who performs them, what their relative order is, how they are synchronized, how information flows to support the tasks and how tasks are being tracked. Managing and Automating Workflows Workflow Automation is an area of process improvement in which businesses benefit from higher efficiency, better time management, and a higher level of organization. Automation eliminates errors in routing, completion, and delivery. The system creates an environment where processes can be completed in a fraction of the time it would take traditionally.