A (long) time ago, my first job consisted of implementing workflows using the Staffware engine. In short, a workflow comprises tasks; an automated task delegates to code, while a manual task requires somebody to do something and mark it as done. Then, it proceeds to the next task - or tasks. Here’s a sample workflow: The above diagram uses Business Process Model and Notation. You can now design your workflow using BPMN and run it with compatible workflow engines. Time has passed.