A framework and taxonomy for workflow architecture

The design and implementation of a workflow management system is typically a large and complex task. Decisions need to be made about the hardware and software platforms, the data structures, the algorithms, and the interconnection of various modules utilized by various users and administrators. These design decisions are further complicated by requirements such as scalability, flexibility, robustness, speed, and usability. In this document we describe a framework and taxonomy conceived to be helpful in the design of workflow systems, and in the understanding of the spectrum of possibilities for large-scale workflow architecture. We are particularly concerned with issues of distributed versus centralized control and data. As a salient example of a novel distributed architecture within this taxonomy, we present the Distributed Chautauqua II Architecture, which is based upon the concept of intelligent process migration from activity to activity without the intervention of a workflow server engine.