Showing papers on "Workflow published in 1993"

The action workflow approach to workflow management technology

Abstract: This paper describes the ActionWorkflow™ approach to workflow management technology: a design methodology and associated computer software for the support of work in organizations. The approach is based on theories of communicative activity as language/action, developed in a series of systems for coordination among users of networked computers. This article describes the approach, gives an example of its application, and shows the architecture of a workflow management system based on it.

Modeling and Enactment of Workflow Systems

Abstract: Petri net models and variants thereof have primarily been used to model structured systems such as computer programs, factory production lines, and engineering hardware. In contrast, this paper discusses the issues and challenges in the modeling of human activity in the workplace. This type of activity frequently has a large component that is unstructured, creative work. It is dynamic and difficult to capture via traditional Petri nets. Our research group at the University of Colorado has been investigating Information Control Nets (ICNs), derived from high level Petri nets, as a tool for modeling office workflow. After carefully explaining the notion of Workflow, this paper presents a formal (and also an informal) definition of ICN. We illustrate the utility of ICNs via an office analysis example.

Merging application-centric and data-centric approaches to support transaction-oriented multi-system workflows

Abstract: Workflow management is primarily concerned with dependencies between the tasks of a workflow, to ensure correct control flow and data flow. Transaction management, on the other hand, is concerned with preserving data dependencies by preventing execution of conflicting operations from multiple, concurrently executing tasks or transactions. In this paper we argue that many applications will be served better if the properties of transaction and workflow models are supported by an integrated architecture. We also present preliminary ideas towards such an architecture.

Reengineering a business process with an innovative workflow management system: a case study

Abstract: Business Process Reengineering (BPR) has been proposed as a new approach to facing the challenge of improving the quality of a business process while reducing its costs. Workgroup computing systems can be considered as the best candidates for BPR, since they aim to improve the effectiveness of the group of people collaborating within a work process. In particular workflow management systems seem to offer the best support to a reengineered business process. In this paper we report on a case of BPR. It consists in the application to a real bank procedure of both a new approach to the analysis of work processes (allowing the evaluation of its transaction costs) and a prototype of a Workflow Management System (WMS), allowing an effective handling of procedure breakdowns without forcing the designers to take care of them.

Workflow management combined with diagnostic and repair expert system tools for maintenance operations

Abstract: The authors present an integrated framework for effective management of maintenance operations that addresses two key problems: the shortage of resources; and the performance differences between the individual available resources, and specifically, the human resources. Software tools are proposed for these two problems. W-6 assists in improved cost-effective utilization of the available resources. That is, assigning the right person, to the right job, at the right time, and with the right resources. AITEST and OnDoc contribute in increasing the productivity and work quality of each individual service person. Software integration is not centered on sharing of data because most of the data and knowledge required by one tool is not required at all by the others. The proposed EPI (External Program Interface) tool implements integration that is centered on the concept of workflow management. The different software systems exchange messages that are characterized by control-passing and by division of labor, with relatively small amounts of data being shared. A case study of a large depot facility where this framework has been implemented is described. >

Workflow management systems for financial services

Abstract: This paper describes the application of workflow management systems in an Italian bank. Under a changing competitive and financial situation, the bank had to react by redesigning its market-oriented business processes. Customer related credit processes have been analyzed using a method based on a client/supplier model. The credit management process was the target for a workflow-based reporting system. The system copes with events in the daily appearance of overdrafts on current accounts which have to be managed by the agency director and the branch’s staff. The reporting system developed is part of a global change from the centralized into a distributed credit management information system based on a clienthcrver architecture. The functional architecture for workflow management technology defines how to integrate the diffenimt functional modules (message handling, data management and document management), and in particular, mainframe EDP with end user computing.

Document delivery over the Internet

Abstract: Dissatisfied with current fax technology and uncertain about future developments, three organizations developed innovative methods for delivering copies of jounral articles. This article will examine the systems developed by : Research Libraries Group (Ariel); North Xarolina State University (Digitalized Document Transmission Project); and Ohio State University (Network Fax Project). Each system will be compared and contrasted in terms of equipment, operation, advantages and disadvantages, and future potential. Workflow and service isues raised by these new document delivery systems will also be discussed.

Electronic Document Management Systems: A Portable Consultant

Abstract: From the Publisher: Written by a leading authority,this book examines new options for data storage,increased networking capabilities,powerful desktop computing,sophisticated software,and the role they all play in the implementation of a fully integrated electronic document management system (EDMS). The author's unique perspective and ample use of case studies provide practical insight into the methods and techniques of EDMS,including workflow issues,image processing,standards,hypertext,multimedia,system requirements,and more. The author's unique perspective and ample use of case studies provide practical insight into the methods and techniques of EDMS,including workflow issues,image processing,standards,hypertext,multimedia,system requirements,and more. Business and organizational issues-such as start-up costs,payback maximization and analysis,cost justification,and cost and saving estimation-are also addressed.

Healthcare industry embraces imaging technologies at AIIM (Association for Information and Image Management).

Abstract: Healthcare and high-tech writer Rob Hard scoured the exhibit hall at the huge Association for Information and Image Management (AIIM) annual conference. He discovered that healthcare professionals are seeking ways to redesign workflow and incorporate the technology into their business plans.

Collaboration Management in DiCE

Abstract: Effectiveness of managing collaborations directly impacts the productivity of a group, and can be significantly improved through computer supported tools made available by the advent of high speed networks and multimedia computer systems. In this paper, we propose a framework for characterizing the requirements of person-to-person (e.g., telephony), person-to-service (e.g., collaboration with software agents), and service-to-service collaborations (e.g., business workflow applications). The framework defines a hierarchy of three abstractions, at the lowest level of which are conferences which characterize the access rights of participants involved in a collaborative endeavor

Workflow management: an overview and some applications

Abstract: WFM is to hte business process what the production line iz to manufacturing. It has already been proved to yield not onlus significant increases in productivity but also considerabbly enhance service to customers.

Process management and control system and method for converting documents.

Abstract: A document conversion system (10) and method manage a document conversion facility (5) for converting a large amount of documents from paper format or some type of preliminary electronic form to some type of final electronic form. The document conversion system (10) has a number of workstations (16, 17) where employees of the facility perform a variety of workflow or document conversion tasks on batches of pages from a number of documents. Each of the employees are assigned workflow tasks and batches by either a facility operator or by the document conversion system (10) which matches workflow task skills and skill level of the employee with the difficulty of the workflow task to be performed. The document conversion system (10) also tracks how efficiently an employee performs his or her assigned workflow tasks as well as what workflow task needs to be performed next on a particular batch.

The Use of Petri Nets for Modeling Workflow in the DOMINO System

Abstract: The DOMINO system is a prototype workflow system intended for the support of structured business processes in organizations. We give a brief description of the system and then show how Petri nets have been used for the modeling of the workflow procedures and of the communication protocols ("conversations") which are used for the execution of such procedures in the D OMINO system.

Computing with Objects: What Does Industry Hope to Gain from it

Abstract: Although the need for an integration of engineering tasks has been stressed for a long time, the success that we see in this regard is very limited. We believe that there is justified hope for object oriented concepts to really provide the basis for considerable progress in the integration of the engineering workflow. The construction industry primarily views itself as users of application software. This software, however, ought to be task specific. A translation of the physical problems dealing with real (highly complex) objects as viewed by the engineer into abstract, 'computer-digestable' (less complex) representations should not be necessary. Some tasks, for instance critical or confidential ones, we will have to solve ourselves. We hop that an object-oriented approach will enable us to produce and use tools that are highly flexible, specifically for mapping complex objects like engineering structures. It can no longer be justified to write - or to have written - code that is only usable for a very specific task and that has to be thrown away completely when this task is replaced or changes substantially. Practical experiences with object-oriented concepts will be reported for an interface between CAD-applications and databases.

Improving Workflow in the Insurance Industry: A Focused Management Approach

Abstract: Focused Management Technology (FMT) is a managerial approach to solving an organization's problems, designed to improve processes and increase profits. It is based on the integration of the well-established Just In Time (JIT), Total Quality Management (TQM), Theory of Constraints (TOC), Global and Effective Performance Measurements (GEPM), and Complete Kit (CK) techniques. These techniques and their underlying philosophies are modified and tailored to meet the special environment and the specific needs of the insurance industry. This article explains the integration of FMT into the insurance industry and demonstrates a successful implementation of FMT concepts in a life insurance department of a leading Israeli insurance company.

Design Considerations of Automated Guided Vehicle Systems in a Cellular Manufacturing Environment

Abstract: Describes a company‐based PhD project into the use of automated guided vehicles in a small‐batch manufacturing environment. The project led to a balanced‐cell methodology to facilitate the use of guided vehicles in a difficult environment. The methodology itself was found to provide benefits for material flow. Having formulated the above approach, a theoretical model is presented, analysing the operational effects of improved workflow. The above theoretical analysis showed the potential benefits of balanced cells on the factory floor, and these were confirmed by a simulation study. This being so, a DCF analysis showed that balanced cells enabled the economic use of guided vehicle systems in multi‐product batch manufacture, by transforming an AGV project from a negative to a positive net present value. An analysis of the wider effects of cellular manufacture enabled the value of the investment to be increased.

Enactment theory as a paradigm for enabling flexible workflows

Abstract: This paper proposes collective enactment theory as an alternative to speech acts or situated actions as the basis for workflow systems. Enactment theory goes beyond the conventional scope of theories of action by acknowledging tiordances in the environment, needs of individuals and organizations, decision and preparation, motivation, planning and scheduling, execution, evaluation, and consequential changes in the organization and their environment. This encompassing scope allows to overcome limitations of current workflow systems and to integrate a large range of organizational and individual behavior. Particular emphasis in this paper is given to organizational activities that precede or follow the planning, scheduling, and execution of organizational work. The integration of planning and scheduling activities in enactment theory is shown and implications for workflow design and architectures are delineated.

Automating the document factory

Abstract: The real value of workflow is the fact that it consolidates existing office automation and document management technologies under a single environment. In this capacity, workflow often represents the critical link vetween technology and people

Planning for success: documenting workflow in the circulation department

Abstract: Planning is essential for circulation and access service managers so they can maximize public access to library materials, etablish service priorities, identify what resources are necessary to maintain service levels, and provide staff with clear performance expectations. This article descrives two tools, used at Vancouver Community Library, that enable the manager to document workflow: performance standards and time surveys. Together, these two provide a general picture of how the department meets its public service goals. With limited resources available to them, circulation and access services managers must plan to increase efficiency, or fail to meet their public obligations

Dokumenten-Management in Büro und Fertigung

Abstract: The topic document management becomes increasingly important for more and more people. Several thousands of documents are created, processed and stored every day. The generation and archiving of documents is an important issue but the real problem that has to be solved is the company-wide integrated processing of documents. The aim of this paper is to introduce workflow management and computer supported groupwork, in order to describe document indexing methods and document retrieval as well as to show the use of document management systems

Library processing at mathematical reviews: a model for review journal processing

Abstract: An integrated production environment for processing of the major mathematics reviewing journal, based on relational database technology, is described. The main component applications are identified, and an example of workflow and usage is provided.

Local systems and authority control

Abstract: This article outlines the information that is needed before purchasing or implementing authority control in a local outline system. The authority record is discussed in relation to the structure of the local system. As well, implications for the workflow are examined.

Simulation concepts for information system

Abstract: Recent improvements in document image systems and their low-cost implementation on networks of microcomputers is leading to the reengineering of many information systems. We describe how document image systems can be applied to information systems. In order to compare the performance of a conventional information system with one implemented with document imaging processing capability we conducted a discrete event simulation. We modeled the conventional information system for processing graduate student admissions. Then we modeled the system assuming the availability of an image document capability. The results of 10 simulation runs for each condition indicated that the document image system resulted in faster processing times for graduate student applications and reduced time to answer faculty and student inquires.