WorkMail: Collaborative document workflow management by email

Abstract

Processing documents is a critical and crucial aspect for enterprises. The management of documents involves several people and can be a long and time-wasting process. We developed a document workflow engine based on email paradigm. Exploiting a web application, the subject of the workflow, the document, can be sent as an email attachment. Our solution overcomes the current limitation in the use of Document Workflow software, especially regarding user experience. With our system there is no need for users to learn how a new framework works. In addition, users with different roles have different customized view of the document. Moreover a suggest feature has been implemented; the system suggests a possible receiver for the document, depending on the document flow. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.