Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are described for authorization of computing devices using cryptographic action tokens. Delegation request data, including an identification certificate, an identifier for a second computing device, and action constraints, are received by a delegation system from a first computing device. A cryptographic action token, including the identifier for the second computing device and the action constraints, is generated by the delegation system. The cryptographic action token is transmitted to the second computing device. An action request specifying an action, the cryptographic action token, and an identification certificate is received by a transaction server. Action data based on the action request and the action constraints are determined by the transaction server. A determination that the action data satisfies the one or more action constraints in the cryptographic action token is made by the transaction server. The action is completed by the transaction server.

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.