Yet Another Workflow Language

YAWL (Yet Another Workflow Language) is a open source workflow language based on the Workflow patterns. The language is supported by a software system that includes an execution engine, a graphical editor and a worklist handler, mostly developed in Java. The system is available as an Open source software under the LGPL license.

Production-leveluses of the YAWL system include a deployment by first:utility and first:telecom in the UK to automate front-end service processes, and by the Australian film television and radio school to coordinate film shooting processes. The YAWL system has also been used for teaching in more than 20 universities.

• Comprehensive support for the workflow patterns.
• Support for advanced resource allocation policies, including four-eyes principle and chained execution.
• Support for dynamic adaptation of workflow models through the notion of worklets.
• Sophisticated workflow model validation features (e.g. deadlock detection at design-time).
• XML-based model for data definition and manipulation based on XML Schema, XPath and XQuery.
• XML-based interfaces for monitoring and controlling workflow instances and for accessing execution logs.
• XML-based plug-in interfaces for connecting third-party web services with the system, including third-party worklist/task handlers.
• Automated form generation from XML schema.

For more information on YAWL, check out YAWL Foundation at http://www.yawlfoundation.org/

Acclario provides consulting around YAWL.