Workflows have become essential to a wide range of departments. Approvals, onboarding, compliance checks, and service requests all rely on automation. But as organizations grow, so do the tools and processes. Without coordination, complexity takes over.
This is workflow sprawl — and it inhibits the efficiency automation was meant to create.
What It Looks Like
- Multiple platforms handling similar tasks
- Redundant or conflicting processes
- Delays from unclear routing or approvals
- Workflows that are difficult to update or scale
Instead of streamlining work, sprawl creates friction. IT and compliance teams end up supporting a patchwork of systems.
Why It’s a Problem
Overbuilt workflows slow organizations down. Small changes require major rework. Staff spend more time navigating systems than doing their jobs.
The risks include:
- Greater chance of noncompliance
- Slower audits and onboarding
- Higher IT support costs
- Inflexibility during change
- …and most of all, the processes meant to be streamlined slow down and daily tasks aren’t accomplished
How to Simplify
The solution is not less automation — it’s smarter automation. Four practices help:
- Centralize workflow management on a single platform
- Empower process owners with low-code tools
- Reuse templates, rules, and forms across workflows
- Track performance and compliance through dashboards and audit trails
Simplicity Scales
Simple workflows make it easier for organizations to adapt to new regulations, staffing changes, and service demands. They also reduce costs, limit risk, and keep automation sustainable.
VisualVault provides a centralized platform that reduces sprawl, simplifies processes, and improves compliance.