Workflow Patterns - Another Classification

Another Classification

Another classification of workflow patterns is the following:

Independent/Pooled

where each component of scheduled work is completed independent of each other component and no component has a specific dependency on any other component. An example would be where staff are serving at a counter - Raoul can serve a customer in his queue without waiting for Jamie to serve a customer in his queue.

Sequential

where each component of scheduled work is dependent on the preceding component. In this case the preceding component controls the advancement of the workflow through subsequent components. An example would be on a production line - Betty cannot affix the radiator cap to the Model T Ford until Veronica has put the radiator in place.

Interdependent/Networked

where each component of scheduled work is dependent on one or a number of other components being completed. In this case the preceding components control the workflow through subsequent components. An example would be a project team - Sarah must wait for several tasks to be completed by Kevin and George before she can execute her task.