Start Node
Overview
The Start node defines the entry point of a workflow process. Every process definition must have exactly one Start node, which marks where the workflow execution begins. When a workflow is initiated, the Start node creates and initializes the process instance, setting up the initial context variables that will be available throughout the workflow execution.
Node Properties
The Start node configuration is minimal, containing only the essential properties needed to define the workflow's starting point:
| Property | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Source position |
Dropdown |
Defines the position from which the transition arrow exits the node. Available options are:
This is a visual property that helps organize the workflow diagram layout. |
| Id | Number |
Unique identifier assigned to the node. This value is automatically generated by the system and uniquely identifies the node within the process definition. |
The Start node only allows one outgoing transition (source). It cannot have any incoming transitions.
Context Variables
When the Start node executes, it initializes several variables in the workflow execution context. These variables are accessible throughout the workflow's lifecycle:
| Variable Name | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| processInstance | ProcessInstance |
Contains the ProcessInstance object representing the running instance of the workflow. This object provides access to the current state and data of the workflow execution. |
| initiator | Actor |
Contains the Actor object representing the user who initiated the workflow. This variable identifies who started the process and can be used for authorization or notification purposes. |
| processDefinition | ProcessDefinition |
Contains the ProcessDefinition object that defines the workflow structure, nodes, and transitions. This represents the workflow template being executed. |
| uuid | String |
Contains the UUID of the OpenKM node associated with the workflow instance. This variable is only present when the workflow is started in the context of a specific OpenKM node (document, folder, mail, or record). |
| node | Document / Folder / Mail / Record |
Contains the OpenKM object (Document, Folder, Mail, or Record) associated with the workflow instance. This variable is only present when the workflow is started with an OpenKM node, and its presence is directly related to the |
The uuid and node variables are only available when the workflow is initiated from an OpenKM node. If the workflow is started manually or programmatically without an associated node, these variables will not be present in the context.
