Introduction

This article will show how both business analysts and developers can benefit from workflow, Business Process Management (BPM), and orchestration. We'll explain the core essence of workflow engines in simple terms, and how this can be leveraged in a Java environment. While every self-respecting developer knows the relational model behind databases, such a model is absent for workflow engines. The Process Virtual Machine will provide that missing piece.

The Process Virtual Machine is the conceptual model that should be in every developer's repertoire, because it helps to explain all the diverse workflow engines that are out there. Furthermore, because Microsoft has come to the same approach independently (see the upcoming section The Other Side), we are convinced that it will be the foundation for all next-generation process engines. This article will clearly outline the goal and value of the Process Virtual Machine, and guide you through the most important parts of the Process Virtual Machine paper that is referenced below. You'll also learn what workflow technology is and when it makes sense in a software project.