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Workflows · LessonBy , SailPoint Architect · Published · IdentityIQ 8.4 · all levels

Workflow basics

How SailPoint IdentityIQ workflows work: the workflow engine, process definitions, steps, variables and when workflows run.

Quick answer

How SailPoint IdentityIQ workflows work: the workflow engine, process definitions, steps, variables and when workflows run.

Key takeaways
  • Workflows are XML Workflow objects run by the IdentityIQ workflow engine
  • Steps are connected by transitions from Start to Stop
  • They power Lifecycle Manager, refresh and certification remediation
  • State is persisted so long-running approvals survive restarts

What a workflow is

A workflow in SailPoint IdentityIQ is a business process modelled as a Workflow object (XML) and executed by the workflow engine. It orchestrates the steps that run when identities change, access is requested, or a lifecycle event fires.

The workflow engine

The engine walks a process definition from a Start step to a Stop step, following transitions. Each step can run a script, call a rule, launch a subprocess, or wait for an approval. State is persisted so long-running processes survive restarts.

Where workflows are used

Workflows drive Lifecycle Manager (access requests, joiner/mover/leaver), identity refresh triggers, certification remediation and custom automation. They are the glue between an event and the provisioning that results.

Anatomy of a Workflow object

Every workflow has variables, steps, transitions and optional handlers. You edit them in the Business Process Editor or directly in XML for full control.

Practice challenge

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Question 1 of 1
What executes a SailPoint workflow?

Frequently asked questions

What does the term Workflow Basics refer to in SailPoint?
A workflow in SailPoint IdentityIQ is a business process modelled as a Workflow object (XML) and executed by the workflow engine. It orchestrates the steps that run when identities change, access is requested, or a lifecycle event fires.
What is the place of Workflow Basics in the joiner-mover-leaver lifecycle?
Workflows drive Lifecycle Manager (access requests, joiner/mover/leaver), identity refresh triggers, certification remediation and custom automation.
What is worth remembering about Workflow Basics in practice?
The engine walks a process definition from a Start step to a Stop step, following transitions.
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