Creating and managing activity-centric workflow

US7761393B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Microsoft Corporation · US

Inventors

• Steven William Macbeth · Redmond, US
• Roland L. Fernandez · Woodinville, US
• Brian R. Meyers · Issaquah, US
• Desney S. Tan · Kirkland, US
• George G. Robertson · Foster City, US
• Nuria M. Oliver · Seattle, US
• Oscar E. Murillo · Seattle, US
• Elin R. Pedersen · Portola Valley, US
• Mary P. Czerwinski · Woodinville, US
• Jeanine E. Spence · Seattle, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 27, 2006
• Grant date: Jul 20, 2010
• Expiry date: Feb 26, 2027

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G06Q10/10
• WIPO field: IT methods for management
• WIPO sector: Electrical engineering

Abstract

A system that can identify, create, update and/or process a workflow based upon a current, past or future activity is disclosed. A ‘workflow’ can be defined as an activity flow that includes interaction with, or assignment of work to, people, devices, or services by a single individual or a group of individuals. Once a workflow is determined in accordance with the innovation, the system can inform other users or groups that are performing, or intend to perform, a similar or like activity. In establishing the workflow, the innovation can operate in an ad hoc or authored manner. As well, the system can employ a combination of either ad hoc or authored mechanisms in establishment of the workflow.