Abstract

A system and method for automating workflow by distributing the tasks required for the execution of said workflow over servers and clients connected on a network. The disclosed system and method allow the stages of the workflow to be performed asynchronously, meaning that, once a workflow initiated by a user has been initiated by a database server, the stages of the workflow can be executed on respective network clients without further interaction with the server (i.e., without requiring a stateful connection between the clients and servers). This is accomplished through the use of a workflow courier that embodies all programs (encompassing rules governing the execution of the workflow) and forms needed by clients to complete stages of the workflow. The workflow courier also stores workflow state information that indicates which stages of the workflow have been completed. The executable programs are written in the platform-independent Java programming language and are therefore executable on any computer that has an installed Java browser. After each stage is executed, the client executing that stage updates the workflow courier and transmits the updated workflow courier to a client having an associated user who is authorized to perform the next step in the workflow. The updated state information indicates to the recipient of the workflow which stages remain to be completed.

Other References

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