Workflow application

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A workflow application is a software application that automates, to at least some degree, a process or processes. The processes are usually business-related but can be any process that requires a series of steps to be automated via software. Some steps of the process may require human intervention, such as approval or the development of custom text, but functions that can be automated should be handled by the application. Advanced applications allow users to introduce new components into the operation.^[1]

For example, consider a purchase order that moves through various departments for authorization and eventual purchase. The order may be automatically routed from one department to another for approval. Once all necessary authorizations are obtained, the requester of the purchase order is notified and granted the necessary authorization. A workflow process may involve frequent maintenance. For example, the usual approver of purchase orders may be on vacation, in which case, the application will request approval from alternative approvers.