A Primer on Workflow Management Using Microsoft Dynamics AX 2009

The workflow management capabilities within Dynamics AX 2009 reflect an underlying conceptual model than can be applied to an approval process for differentsituations, ranging from the simple to complex.   A layman's understanding of this conceptual model can help youframe a solution approach to each situation. Some example situations include the approval process for purchaserequisitions and new items. 

The conceptual model within Dynamics AX 2009 involves workflow templates and workflow configurations.  A workflow template provides the framework for creating a workflow configuration, which can then be tailored to represent a specific approval process.  Each situation requires a different workflow template, since the nature of the starting point, the relevant information, andthe action upon approval will vary for each situation.  In addition, you will likely create multiple  workflow configurations from a workflow template to model variations in thesituation. 

The conceptual model within a workflow template - and within the workflow configurations created from the template -- consists of several key aspects.  The key aspects include (1) the starting point to submit something for approval, (2) a task, (3) the approval step(s) within the approval process, and (4) an action upon approval.  The left side of Figure 1 displays these key aspects for a requisition example; the example on the right side is for a new item.  I'll initially focus on the leftside of Figure 1 and the key aspects for the requisition example.

- Submit for Approval (Starting Point).  The starting point varies for the two basic requisition situations, such as starting from a purchase requisition (for submitting a general requisition for approval) or from a project (for ...