Workflow Design Tools Are Transforming Manual Processes Every Day
Wouldn’t it be great if you could take a current business process, lay it out visually, and then just…turn it on? No more confusion, emails, Excel spreadsheets, shared documents, or, gasp(!), paper forms. You just draw what you want to happen and suddenly everyone knows what they need to do.
Business people are doing this every day with workflow design tools built into workflow automation systems. Tools like LucidChart, Creately, and Visio are great for illustrating workflows and sharing them with other team members to ensure the workflow is designed correctly. However, these tools create static illustrations and can’t take the next step, which is workflow automation.
If your ultimate goal is to move manual workflows and processes to a working, automated system you are better off finding a true workflow automation tool with an easy-to-use design interface. That way, once the workflow is approved, you can start using it right away in the real world.
Important Features of a Workflow Design Tool
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Low code, drag and drop building environment
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Assign tasks and actions
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Collaborate on tasks and requests
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Share entire process flow with users
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Copy, export, version processes
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Create child processes
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Create simple or complex business rules
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Create single, group, or multi-tiered approvals
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Run parallel or sequential flows
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Set up reminders, customizable notifications, and time-outs
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Test run processes
Ready to see a workflow design tool in action? Get a free demonstration of Nutrient Workflow.
Considerations for Starting a Workflow Design Project
Starting a workflow design project can be a small, focused effort or a broader effort that spans several departments or business units.
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Strong executive support and ongoing communication from the top that makes the priority of the workflow project clear to everyone.
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Allocation of sufficient resources for the design and management effort.
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A formal workflow improvement plan and toolset so that everyone speaks the same language and all process teams produce the same results.
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A clear approval process for implementing workflow changes.
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The initiative must be run like a true business project with defined responsibilities and milestones.
Examples of Workflow Design Tools
Tools Just for Design
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Visio
Tools That Include Automation
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KissFlow
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BP Logix
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Intellect
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WorkflowGen
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K2
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Decisions.com
See Nutrient Workflow’s Workflow Designer in Action
FAQ
What is a workflow design tool?
A workflow design tool allows businesses to visually map out and automate their processes, improving efficiency and collaboration.How do workflow automation tools differ from workflow design tools?
Workflow automation tools go beyond design by automating processes, allowing tasks to be completed without manual intervention after the workflow is set up.Can workflow design tools be used without technical expertise?
Yes, many workflow design tools are low-code and offer drag-and-drop features, making them accessible even to non-technical users.How can a workflow design tool benefit small businesses?
Small businesses can streamline operations, reduce manual tasks, and improve team collaboration by using workflow design tools to automate processes.Are there any free workflow design tools?
Yes, there are free versions of tools like Draw.io and LucidChart that offer basic workflow design features.
Jonathan joined Nutrient in 2014. As CEO, Jonathan defines the company’s vision and strategic goals, bolsters the team culture, and steers product direction. When he’s not working, he enjoys being a dad, photography, and soccer.
