Abstract: To control the processing of a work item, the work item is stored in a database of work items and is executed by an operator. Organizations use the database, and the operator belongs to one of the organizations. Organization identifiers are associated with corresponding organizations, and definitional data items are associated with corresponding organization identifiers. The definitional data items define rules that can be altered after the system is initially configured and while the system is running.

Abstract: A computer-based method is provided for use in processing a work item in an automated workflow system. Suspension information relating to a previous suspension of the work item is stored. Based on the suspension information or the indication of the current time, it is determined whether processing of the work item is permitted to be suspended. A recommended resume time is determined that constitutes a time that is permitted to be selected for when processing of the work item is to resume, and the recommended resume time is displayed to an operator before the operator causes processing of the work item to be suspended. After processing of the work item has been suspended, it is determined that processing of the work item is to be resumed, and the work item is caused to be one of a predetermined number of next work items presented to an operator after the determination is made.

Abstract: A computer system executable method is provided for managing resources in an automated workflow system for manipulating a work item, the work item being stored in a database of work items for subsequent execution by an operator and meeting a predetermined criteria. A first definitional data item is stored in a memory, the first definitional data item affecting how the workflow system processes work items meeting the predetermined criteria. A directive is received from an administrator to remove the first definitional data item from the memory. A mark is set, the mark being associated with the first definitional data item to indicate that the first definitional data item is to be removed from the memory. If a second definitional data item is normally able to be made dependent on the first definitional data item, the mark is used to prevent the second definitional data item from being made dependent on the first definitional data item after the mark was set.