Launch a workflow from a workflow definition

When a workflow definition is created in the Process Designer, it can be added to an object store. If you have permission to access the object store, folder, and workflow definition, you can launch a new work item without using the Process Designer.

Usually you use the Process Designer to edit, validate, transfer, and launch the workflow. However, it is possible to add a workflow definition to the object store without transferring it to the Process Engine. When you select an existing workflow definition to launch, it might not have already been transferred to the Process Engine. You will receive an error message if you attempt to launch a workflow that has not been transferred.

TIP  You can also launch a workflow from within Process Designer if you have access to the Advanced Tools in Author view in Workplace, and if you have permission to modify the content of the workflow.

To launch from a workflow definition

  1. Navigate to the object store and folder that contains the workflow definition file. Workflow definitions are indicated with the Launch icon.
  2. Open the information page for the workflow definition, and then click Launch.

    NOTE   If you receive an error message stating that the workflow has not been transferred, click Return. See Transfer a Workflow Definition for more information.

  3. Click Launch under the description for the workflow. The Launch Step page opens. If the workflow is designed to launch a form, the form opens instead of the Launch Step page.
  4. As needed, enter any information for the launch step. You can add comments, change the Subject, and set any parameters defined for this step. For example, you can add and edit attachments, edit data field values, or edit the workflow group members if these are defined as available in the launch step. If you are working with a form, use the buttons that apply.
  5. Do one of the following to save your changes:
  6. Click Launch in the Actions list to move the work item to the next step in the process.
  7. The Launch Workflow page is displayed again. You can launch the workflow again, or click Exit to return to the information page for the workflow definition.