Stepper Project

Overview

The Stepper Project is a Java-based workflow management system that allows users to design, execute, and manage workflows (referred to as "flows") composed of reusable components (steps). It is built with a multithreaded, client-server architecture to support simultaneous operations and provide a scalable, user-friendly platform for managing complex processes.

This project demonstrates advanced Java development skills, focusing on modularity, GUI integration, and effective data management.

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Features

1. Flow Definition and Execution: Design flows by assembling reusable components (steps). Execute flows while tracking progress and collecting runtime data.

2. Multithreaded Execution: Supports simultaneous execution of multiple flows. Ensures efficient resource utilization and real-time monitoring.

3. User Management: Role-based access control for flow management and execution. Separate permissions for administrators and regular users.

4. Data Tracking and Analytics: Collect and store data from flow executions. Generate insights and reports based on historical execution data.

5. Graphical User Interface (GUI): Intuitive GUI for designing, managing, and executing workflows. Real-time updates on flow execution status and performance metrics.

6. Serialization: JSON-based serialization for saving and restoring workflows and configurations.

7. Client-Server Architecture: Centralized server for managing flows, users, and data. Lightweight client applications for interaction.

8. Error Handling: -Comprehensive validation during flow creation and execution. -Detailed error messages for troubleshooting.

Technologies and Skills Demonstrated

• Java OOP: Modular design with reusable components.
• Multithreading: Efficient execution of concurrent workflows.
• Client-Server Model: Communication and data exchange between server and clients.
• JSON Serialization: Persistent storage and retrieval of workflows.
• GUI Development: Interactive user interfaces with real-time feedback.
• Role-Based Access Control: Fine-grained permission management.
• Data Analytics: Aggregation and analysis of flow execution data.

System Architecture

Engine System

Workflow Definition: Allows mapping inputs to outputs and defining workflows. Execution Management: Tracks inputs, outputs, logs, and summaries during workflow execution. Statistics Collection: Gathers and displays execution data for workflows and steps.

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

The GUI is built with JavaFX and includes:

1. Dashboard: Displays all workflows and their details.
2. Execution Screen: Launch workflows with required inputs and monitor progress.
3. History Screen: View past executions and their detailed results.
4. Statistics Screen: Displays workflow execution data in tables and charts.

Client-Server Architecture

Server Features: Role Management: Define and assign roles with specific workflow permissions. User Management: Create and manage user accounts. Client Features: Workflow Execution: Users can run workflows and view personal execution history. Role-Based Access Control: Permissions determine accessible workflows.

Technologies Used

• Java: Core programming language.
• JavaFX: GUI development.
• CSS: Styling for the GUI.
• Multithreading: Enables asynchronous execution.
• Client-Server Model: Supports multiple users with distinct permissions.

How It Works

For Administrators

• Upload flow definition files to the system.
• Manage user roles and permissions.
• View and analyze all user executions.

For Regular Users

• Log in with a unique username.
• Execute authorized flows and view results.
• Access personal execution history and statistics.

For Managers

• Have elevated permissions to access all flows and execution histories