IBM MQSeries Workflow is an integrated product suite, based on a three-tier client-server model. The server components may be hosted on a variety of platforms including Windows NT/2000, AIX, HP-UX, Sun Solaris and OS/390. It is a client/server system with a hierarchical network structure. At the root of the network, MQSeries Workflow has the concept of a domain (e.g. a company).

Basically, IBM MQSeries Workflow clearly distinguishes two environments:

• "Runtime", which comprises a set of client components and a set of server components. Client components include a user interface for managing worklists and starting process execution (Workflow Client), and a user interface for administrators (Administration Utility). Server components include the Execution Server (the process engine), the Administration Server (responsible for the availability, operation, and error recovery of all server components), the Scheduling Server (controls all time-related functions of a workflow system), the Cleanup Server (physically deletes finished process instances), and the Java CORBA Agent (routes requests from the Java API to the Execution Server).
• "Buildtime", which offers a graphical editor for creating and maintaining process models. Buildtime uses a dedicated relational database to store process models and related information.

"Buildtime" and "Runtime" use separate databases. In theory, each modeler could have his "own" dedicated database on the local workstation. Whenever a process model is ready for transfer to the operational environment, it is exported to the main database controlled by "Runtime".

IBM MQSeries Workflow uses a Workflow Definition Language (FDL) for the exchange of process models between "Runtime" and "Buildtime". Third party tools, such as Adonis (BOC), and Workflow BPR (HOLOSOFX) can also generate FDL files, which can then be imported into "Buildtime" or "Runtime". This opens up additional options for organizations that would like to substitute IBM's process modeling tool ("Buildtime"). Third party tools may provide additional features, such as process simulation (HOLOSOFX, for example).

WebSphere BtoB Integrator addresses collaboration between organizations and provides support for integration at the process level, rather than at the application level. It embeds Extricity's B2B software technology, which includes partner-relationship management components. WebSphere BtoB Integrator includes the Partner Agreement Manager, which supports integration and collaboration and features monitoring and management tools. It is a platform that links external operations with internal operations.