workflow engine

The core application that automates, monitors, and orchestrates complex, multi-step business processes based on predefined logic and rules.

A workflow engine is a critical component of Business Process Management (BPM) software, acting as a traffic controller for tasks and data. It manages the state of activities, determines the next transition according to a defined process model (often using BPMN), and allocates tasks to the appropriate human or system executor. For example, in an expense approval process, the engine automatically routes a $5,000 claim to a senior manager, triggers an API call to the accounting system for logging, and sends real-time notifications, ensuring efficiency and auditability across all steps.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Workflow_engine