  The paper presents an introductory overview of the workflow automation area,
outlining the main types, basic technologies, the essential features of
workflow applications. Two sorts of process models for the definition of
workflows (according to the conversation-based and activity-based
methodologies) are sketched. Later on, the nature of Lotus Notes and its
capabilities (as an environment for workflow management systems development)
are indicated. Concluding, the experience of automating administrative
workflows (developing a Subsystem of Inter-institutional Document Management of
the VADIS project) is briefly outlined.
