Nora IPLM provides two workflow initialization options: Initialize Workflow and Initialize and Start Workflow. These commands are used to convert a Workflow Template into a workflow and control whether the workflow execution starts immediately or remains inactive.
By separating workflow initialization from workflow execution and object association, Nora IPLM enables clear process control. This approach supports both careful preparation of workflows and fast execution when required, without prematurely affecting objects or triggering tasks.
Initialize Workflow
The Initialize Workflow command allows users to convert a workflow template into an initialized workflow instance without starting it. The workflow remains inactive and does not generate tasks, notifications, or process tracking.
This approach supports workflow preparation activities such as reviewing roles, participants, and parameters before execution. As a result, teams can ensure that the workflow is correctly initialized before it is connected to an object or started.
Initialize and Start Workflow
The Initialize and Start Workflow command allows users to convert a workflow template into a workflow instance and start its execution immediately. Once triggered, the workflow becomes active and begins generating tasks and notifications.
This option supports scenarios where the workflow setup is already validated, and no additional preparation is required. As a result, teams can quickly move from template to active processes without intermediate steps.
Why Use Workflow Initialization Commands
In PLM environments, workflows often need to be prepared, reviewed, or activated at different times depending on process complexity and urgency. Nora IPLM provides two initialization options to support these different needs.
You can use these commands when:
- A workflow template needs to be converted into a reusable workflow instance
- Workflow configuration should be reviewed before execution
- A workflow should become active immediately after initialization
- Process control and execution speed need to be balanced
Key Differences Between the Commands
Importantly, the two commands differ only in whether workflow execution starts immediately.
- Initialize Workflow converts the template into a workflow instance but does not start it
- Initialize and Start Workflow converts the template and starts execution in a single action
- Only the Start Workflow option activates tasks, notifications, and process tracking
Both commands preserve workflow definitions, permissions, and audit rules.
Where to Find the Workflow Template Commands
You can access workflow initialization commands from multiple locations in the platform.
Both Initialize Workflow and Initialize and Start Workflow commands are available from the Workflow Template Commands submenu. Users can access this submenu from the right-click menu of Workflow Template objects, as well as from the widget toolbar of the widget that contains the selected workflow template.
The commands are available:
- From any widget that supports Workflow Template commands
(including lists and the Search pane) - From widget toolbars where workflow template actions are supported
(excluding Metrics and Chart widgets)
How to Use Workflow Initialization Commands
1. Select the Workflow Template
First, select the Workflow Template you want to initialize.
You can select the template from any widget, list, or the Search pane where Workflow Template objects are displayed.
2. Choose the Initialization Action
Open the right-click menu of the selected Workflow Template or use the widget toolbar.
Then, from the Workflow Template Commands submenu, select either Initialize Workflow or Initialize and Start Workflow.
3. Complete the Action
If you choose Initialize Workflow, the workflow template is converted into an initialized workflow instance, but execution does not start.
If you choose Initialize and Start Workflow, the workflow template is converted into a workflow instance and execution starts immediately.
After completion, a notification appears in the lower-left corner to confirm the action.
Additional Notes
- These commands do not connect a workflow to an object.
Use the Connect to Workflow command or regular relation creation actions with the Workflow Content relationship to associate an initialized workflow instance with an object. - Initialize commands operate only on Workflow Template objects.
- Workflow execution begins only when the workflow is started, either via Initialize and Start Workflow or a separate start action.
- A workflow can only be started if all nodes have assignees.
- A workflow template can only be initialized if it is released.
