Sharepoint workflow vs Windows workflow

Question

We are in the process of implementing the sharepoint application, we would like to know the the pros and cons of SharePoint workflow versus Windows workflow.

Answer 1

Workflows in SharePoint are implemented using the Windows Workflow Foundation, so they are not that different, but there still are some things to be aware of regarding that implementation.

SharePoint is a Windows Workflow host, so you don't have to implement your own host which is fine if you agree with the decisions made by the SharePoint team:

• Workflow instances are persisted in the content database
• Communication with the user is through SharePoint tasks
• Every workflow instance is tied to a list/library item
• Tracking is not implemented

If these choices are to your liking then by all means use the SharePoint workflows.

If not then implement your own host and make your own decisions.

Answer 2

They are the same thing. The current Windows Workflow Engine was created for SharePoint.

Now it should be noted, that the Workflow engine is going to be overhauled with the release of .Net 4.0. I don't know the specifics, but I've been told the differences are significant. I woudld assume this is going to be used in Sharepoint 2010, but I don't have any information on that.

Here is a link describing the upgrade in 4.0.