WebMethods To Add Workflow Server To Integration PlatformWebMethods To Add Workflow Server To Integration Platform

WebMethods Inc. next month will unveil workflow capabilities within its enterprise-integration platform. The company's current technology has focused on system-to-system integration to automate a business process, such as moving a purchase order from an order-entry application to multiple back-office software, including accounting, inventory management, and warehouse-management systems. Workflow takes into account those scenarios in which a person might have to become involved in the process.

The workflow server integrated into the webMethods Integration Platform stems from technology acquired from IntelliFrame Corp., a Computer Network Technology Corp. subsidiary bought by webMethods about a year ago. When a business process requires human involvement, the webMethods business-process engine triggers the workflow server, which notifies the appropriate people, such as customer-service representatives or credit managers. The notification can be through a Web page delivered to a browser or a desktop application available through webMethods. Responses are sent back to the workflow engine and passed back through the business-process server. Scott Opitz, senior VP of strategic planning, estimates that between 10% and 15% of business processes can't be fully automated because of the necessary human involvement. Pricing for the new software wasn't available.

Like many other companies, webMethods' software sales have been hit hard during the economic slump. The company last month reported a net loss for the third quarter ending Dec. 31, of $13.9 million, or 28 cents a share, compared with a loss of $12.7 million, or 27 cents a share, a year earlier. Revenue fell to $49.1 million from $59.4 million a year ago, but were up 21% from the second quarter's $40.7 million. Nevertheless, CEO Phillip Merrick has remained upbeat about the business outlook.