Workflow Technology

Workflow technology made its presence first in the 1980’s. It was first incorporated in the insurance industry, where it drastically brought down the documentation involved. It was also used for imaging in case of various business processes. Since then, there have been several industries that have incorporated its services. Healthcare has also recently joined the other industries in incorporating the benefits of workflow technology in creating a more effective work environment.

Workflow typically deals with the responsibilities, assets, and triggers related with a definite procedure. Workflow technology deals with the computerization of these processes. They are able to synchronize and supervise the various actions related with distinct procedures. It is able to implement the various related business rules by the presence of a workflow engine.

Certain procedures do not adapt very well to automation. Processes that involve sequential or parallel steps, in their implementation are able to suit rapidly to such computerization. These processes are also found to require automation at specific points, communicating the tasks as well as alerting mechanisms. Task communication, if not carried out properly, leads to serious mistakes and expensive delays.

The common features of automating any process involve user adoption. For this, specific systems need to be integrated into the existing workflow. It is imperative that the systems have the ability to coordinate a multidisciplinary association of processes. It is also necessary for the system to have decision maintaining abilities. Thus, installation of such a workflow system is not simply the incorporation of software but should be a means of automating and if necessary bring alterations to the process.
There are several benefits of workflow automation such as cost cutback, enhanced operational efficacies, reduction of mistakes, superior communication, and audit of the procedures. Automation should aim for and bring about improvement. Hence, it is also important to make the related manual processes effective to enhance its effect when automated. It should also be aimed at streamlining and enhancing the current procedure.