Workflow management refers to the identification, organization, and coordination of a particular set of tasks that produce a specific outcome. Workflow management is all about optimizing, improving, and automating workflows wherever possible to increase output, eliminate repetition, and reduce errors.

A workflow can include any number of steps, and may involve a combination of people, systems, or machines. Those who manage workflows search for opportunities to eliminate bottlenecks and improve visibility into the flow.

Sequential workflows occur when each step depends on the completion of a previous step. For example, if you’re managing a procurement department, you have to wait until the quotation is made and the purchase is approved before paying the invoice. Rules-based workflows using conditional logic (think: if this, then that) are an example of a type of sequential workflow.

Parallel workflows occur when multiple tasks are performed concurrently. For example, if you’re hiring a new employee, HR can request the purchase of equipment and software from the finance team while simultaneously requesting paperwork, signatures, and contracts from the legal team. These workflows also referred to as state workflows, are sometimes dependent on each other.