Branching rules in a workflow management system are designed to split workflows into multiple branches based on specific conditions or criteria. This capability is crucial for handling complex decision-making processes that require different actions or paths depending on the inputs or conditions met during the workflow execution.
Key Features of Branching Rules
Data-Driven Branching
Data Comparison: Branching can occur based on data stored within the system. Specific data fields are evaluated, and the workflow path diverges based on the results of these comparisons.
Expression-Based Conditions: More complex branching can be implemented using expressions similar to Excel formulas. This allows for nuanced decision-making based on a combination of data fields and logical operations.
User Input
Branch by Answer: Workflows can branch based on the responses to questions posed to users. If the workflow includes forms or interactive questions, the responses can dictate the subsequent path taken, such as routing users to different workflow branches based on their inputs.
Time and Role-Based Branching
Branch by Working Time: Branches can be activated only during certain hours, aligning the workflow actions with business hours or specific time frames predefined in the system settings.
Branch by Role: Certain branches may be accessible only to users with specific roles or meta roles, ensuring that sensitive or role-specific paths are correctly handled.
The "System Branch" functionality is a specialized form of branching that automatically directs the workflow based on system-level conditions or statuses. This type of branching is particularly useful for handling exceptions, errors, or predefined system states.
The "Go To" functionality allows for dynamic jumping within the workflow, enabling redirection to any stage of the workflow, not just forward or backward linear steps. This feature offers great flexibility in workflow design, allowing non-linear progression based on real-time conditions or user inputs.
Key Features of Go To Functionality
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Direct Navigation: Provides the ability to skip over certain parts of the workflow or revisit previous stages, facilitating a non-linear progression that can be customized based on the needs of the task or the user.
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Conditional Jumps: Jumps can be conditional, based on user inputs, data values, or other workflow states, allowing for highly customizable workflow paths.
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Loop Prevention: Advanced configurations within the Go To functionality include loop detection and prevention mechanisms, ensuring that the workflow does not get stuck in repetitive cycles.