Diff between sequential workflow and state machine workflow

Question

Hi Please explaine Diff between sequential workflow and state machine workflow Dhanraj

Mahesh Chand · Answer

As name suggests a sequential workflow executes in a sequence and there is no condition while state machine will have conditions and based on the condition flow will go to the matching direction. If you installed WF it comes with a documentation that clearly explains the difference.

shantanu · Answer

Sequential Workflow : A sequential workflow is a predictable workflow. The execution path might branch or loop or wait for an outside event to occur but in the end the sequential workflow will use the activities conditions and rules we've provided to march inevitably forward. The workflow is in control of the process. We use a sequential workflow when we can encode most of the decision-making inside the workflow itself. State Machine Workflow : A state-machine workflow is an event driven workflow. That is the state machine workflow relies on external events to drive the workflow to completion. We define the legal states of the workflow and the legal transitions between those states. The workflow is always in one of the states and has to wait for an event to arrive before transitioning to a new state. Generally the important decisions happen outside of the workflow. The state machine defines a structure to follow but control belongs to the outside world. We use a state machine workflow when the decision-making happens outside the workflow. Reference : http://www.odetocode.com/Articles/460.aspx

abhishek gattani · Answer

In sequential workflow there is flow of exection which is fixed means one is aware of things which state will execute next let's talk of state machine workflow flow may change there are if's and but's in state machine