Self-adapting workflow reconfiguration
Journal of Systems and Software
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Workflow reconfiguration traditionally involves modifying workflow specifications to adapt to changing architectural conditions. Causes include the introduction of new services or the alteration of goals. Dynamic reconfiguration is currently achieved in workflow specifications employing Web services using techniques that modify endpoint bindings and control structures. Abstract specification of service endpoints delay the point at which the endpoint for a Web service is bound, and modifications to control structures can allow for a variety of complex workflows to be specified. These approaches work with limited changes. This paper defines an improved process of dynamically reconfiguring Web service workflows. Our double loop approach utilizes companion meta-data specifications and reconfiguration plans that are associated with workflow specifications. The approach maps external change requests to workflow actions to determine an appropriate reconfiguration plan without changing the workflow language. Dynamic reconfiguration concepts are reused from architecture reconfiguration research to offer a wider range of potential changes.