Abstract: A computer-implemented task workflow management system having built-in functions for simulating operations and performing rule syntax checks. A rule editor is provided for editing a plurality of rules describing a predetermined task execution sequence. The rule editor includes means for simulating a rule execution without having to create work items to send through a map. The syntax of a rule may be checked and a list of the instance variables in the rule being tested may be provided. A message box may be provided to display a result of the simulation and the successfully firing clause may be highlighted.

Abstract: A computer-implemented task workflow management system is provided which includes a workflow engine. The workflow engine routes tasks in a predetermined task execution sequence to one or more workers. In addition, the workflow engine provides access to data and documents required by each worker to complete a particular task. A rule evaluator mechanism is operatively coupled to the workflow engine to evaluate a plurality of rules describing the predetermined task execution sequence such that the workflow management system is rule-based. An external program execution mechanism is operatively coupled to the rule evaluator mechanism to execute a program instruction external to the workflow management system such that functionality of the workflow management system can be extended beyond a core workflow management feature set in the workflow engine.