Introducing Time-Dependent Workflow Actions

As we mentioned earlier, time-dependent workflow actions are actions that occur before or after a certain amount of time has elapsed (for example, seven days before the value of the Hire By field, or three days after the workflow rule is triggered). We can use time-dependent workflow actions to fire tasks, field updates, and email alerts while the condition of a workflow rule remains true.

For example, the goal of reassigning position records to the Unclaimed Positions queue is to have the appropriate recruiter take ownership. However, there might be situations in which a position is placed in the queue and no recruiter claims it. Rather than leaving the position to languish unclaimed in the queue, we can define a time-dependent workflow action that alerts the recruiting manager if no recruiter claims a position record within a certain number of days. Because this action only takes place while the workflow condition remains true (that is, while the position is owned by a non-recruiter), the manager will only be alerted when necessary.

Neat, huh? Let's see how time-dependent actions are defined.