Runaway Workflows
It is possible to create workflows that start other workflows. Depending on how your workflows are configured, this situation can cause a never ending loop of workflows. For example, consider the following workflows.
- Workflow A: Whenever a document is copied into Folder A, this workflow copies the document into Folder B.
- Workflow B: Whenever a document is copied into Folder B, this workflow copies the document into Folder A.
In this scenario, Workflow A and B will run continuously, each causing the other to run, until they are manually stopped.
To stop runaway workflows
- Disable the starting rule(s) associated with the runaway workflow(s).
- Modifying the starting rules and/or workflow definitions to correct the problem. Specifically, you may want to exclude the Workflow User from your starting rule.
Note: Use caution if you have configured the Invoke Workflow activity to run the workflow that the activity is in. In this situation, ensure that your workflow reaches a completion point. Failure to do so may lead to a runaway workflow that cannot be resolved using the method described above. If you encounter this issue, disable the Invoke Workflow activity and re-publish the workflow.
