Use this map before building. It exposes the information, rules, ownership, and exception handling the automation must preserve.
Workflow areaWhat to defineDecision supportedEvidence to keep
TriggerSubmission, event, schedule, or record change.When should the workflow start?Source, timestamp, requester, and trigger context.
Intake recordRequired fields, files, linked records, and validation.Is the work complete enough to route?Submitted values, attachments, and validation result.
Routing ruleConditions, owner, approver, threshold, and fallback.Who should act next?Rule matched, assignment, due date, and escalation.
Human decisionReview criteria, comments, return reason, and authority.Approve, reject, return, or request more evidence?Reviewer, decision, reason, and time.
Automated actionUpdate, notification, assignment, integration, or document.What can the system do after the decision?Action result, destination, and failure status.
Exception and closeoutBlocked state, exception owner, resolution, and KPI.Is the workflow complete and trustworthy?History, closeout note, outcome, and unresolved issues.