Computerized method and system for managing business processes using linked workflows

US6073109A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Action Technologies Ltd · US

Inventors

• Fernando Flores · Plan de Ayala, MX
• Chauncey F. Bell, III · San Rafael, US
• Pablo Flores · Houston, US
• Rodrigo F. Flores · Berkeley, US
• Raul Medina-Mora Icaza · Mexico City, MX
• John A. McAfee · Kensington, US
• Manuel Jasso Nunez · Alameda, US
• Thomas G. Buchler · Berkeley, US
• Thomas E. White · Sykesville, US
• Russell G. Redenbaugh · Philadelphia, US
• Juan Ludlow Saldivar · Mexico City, MX
• Terry A. Winograd · Stanford, US
• Robert P. Dunham · Pleasanton, US
• Harry K. T. Wong · Danville, US
• Roy I. Gift · San Anselmo, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 12, 1996
• Grant date: Jun 6, 2000
• Expiry date: Dec 12, 2016

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G06Q10/06311
• WIPO field: IT methods for management
• WIPO sector: Electrical engineering

Abstract

A system for analyzing and structuring business processes implemented in software to provides businesses with tools to manage business processes. The system i) notifies the user that he or she has a step to begin or to complete; ii) provides the user with the proper tools to complete a task; iii) provides the user with the proper information to complete a task; iv) allows the user to see where a task fits in the overall process; v) manages proper reminders, alerts, and follow-ups to keep the process moving; vi) automates certain standard procedures; vii) integrates with the organization's existing business systems; and viii) provides application program interfaces that allow developers to develop applications that are workflow-enabled. The system utilizes a workflow server including a transactions manager and a database.