Using task modelling concepts for achieving adaptive workflows

Abstract

Business processes are usually described by abstract workflow specifications. However, existing workflow descriptions are often too restricted to reflect the true nature of work. For instance tasks might be added or deleted during execution. The presently available workflow management systems insufficiently support the desired flexibility for workflows. In this article we present an approach, how certain kinds of adaptability can be achieved on the base of task modelling combined with the principle of "Order & Supply". Task models offer means to describe the way humans perform tasks in cooperation focussing on the individual level. We show that the principles of task modelling can also be used for cooperative workflow models providing means on group level. © IFIP International Federation for Information Processing 2005.