10 Best Open Source Workflow Management Software in 2024

Integration and customization are essential capabilities of workflow management software. Given the fact that open-source workflow management tools and systems do not operate independently, it is crucial for them to connect seamlessly with core software systems like CRM, marketing, sale, etc., to make sure that the flow of data and execution of automated actions are not only efficient but also accurate to your business needs.

All workflow management open source or not offer different levels of interoperability and workflow customization. Not all of them, however, give you full control over how you want them to communicate with other business apps and interact with employees in charge of human tasks. If you are looking for a workflow management platform that you can tailor to your business’s unique needs, open-source software is exactly what you need. And in this article, we gathered 10 of the best open-source workflow management software you may want to consider checking out.

Despite all human efforts, project management—and by extension, workflow management—remains plagued by various issues and challenges. It is not for lack of trying, but project workflow inefficiencies, the growing complexity of task switching and locating diverging documents ensure that the best of human attempts can only do so much.

Recognizing all these human limits to achieving optimum project workflow efficiency, many organizations have welcomed automation, AI, robots, and machine learning with open hands, seeing them as the long-awaited solution to these workflow management challenges. The staggering results speak for themselves: When Deloitte started tracking this development in 2015, only 13% of organizations indicated plans to increase automation via robotic process automation (RPA). Only five years later, 78% have already implemented it, with 16% more planning to do so in the next three years.

Experts have long predicted the inevitability of robots taking their place in the workplace. The COVID-19 pandemic, the hastening march of the fourth industrial revolution and quickening digital transformation—take your pick, but the next few years will very likely reshape human society in very fundamental ways. In all likelihood, many organizations will use any of the best workflow management software open-source capabilities to get there.

Best Open Source Workflow Management Software in 2025

1. vtenext

First on our list is vtenext, one of the best CRM solutions with an open-source framework. Designed to be an all-in-one platform for core business processes, vtenext comes with a natively integrated business processes management engine that streamlines marketing, sales, after-sales, and customer service activities. As an open-source workflow management system, vtenext is capable of automating all functions, such as lead profiling, product pricing, handling customer inquiries and complaints, and more.

Aside from flexibility and usability, mobility is another advantage vtenext offers. It has a dedicated mobile app that supports iOS and Android devices. Through the app, you can access vtenext’s main functionalities, such as your company’s performance and other status of your company’s operations.

What makes vtenext even more ideal is it does not require its users to have advanced coding skills. You can extend the functions of its pre-built modules or create new ones even without the help of IT professionals. It also gives you access to more than 100 plugins and third-party applications including Shopify, Mailchimp, and Salesforce.

Pricing plan for this software is quote-based and only available upon request.

2. Bitrix24

Bitrix24 is a free software that provides you with robust features offered by some of the leading collaboration solutions. Its cloud-based platform provides a myriad of workflow management tools open source for project management, CRM, communication, sales, and even HR automation. Moreover, the on-premise version gives you full access to the source code and complete control over customization of the app’s user interface, integration, and others.

One of Bitrix24’s core features is its business process designer, which enables you to manage and create custom workflows. The business process designer supports both sequential and status-driven business processes. As a CRM tool, this enables you to set up different criteria, conditions, or triggers to automatically assign leads to different agents. You can also automate creation of relevant tasks, approvals, and even email communication with clients.

Aside from its workflow automation capabilities, Bitrix24 can be integrated with more than 100 applications including Xero, Zoom, and Quickbooks. It also has a mobile application that allows you to make video calls, send chats, assign tasks, and more.
You can get Bitrix24’s cloud-based for free or sign up for a subscription plan if you need access to the more advanced features. Pricing for premium plans starts at $49 per month, billed annually. But if you prefer the on-premise edition, the annual subscription starts at $2,990.

3. Taiga.io

If you are looking for an open-source project management software, you might want to look into Taiga.io. Designed for agile development teams, Taiga offers extensive workflow customization capabilities. These include creating multiple workflows using, setting up work-in-progress (WIP) limits, adding multiple filter options, having the capability to switch between Kanban and scrum frameworks, and more.

Customization also applies to issue tracking. You can add different issue types and categorize them based on severity, which makes prioritization easier. You can also tailor epics, user stories, tasks, and issues down to each field and attribute. Furthermore, you can configure user roles and their permission access not only for security purposes but also to make project and task delegation easier. And if you are using other project management tools like Asana, Github, Trello, and Jira, you can easily migrate your data to Taiga and vice versa.

Taiga’s online version is free for teams that have a maximum of 15 users. The premium plan for this version costs $5 per user per month if billed annually. If you prefer the on-premise edition, the self-managed version is also free. But if you require priority support, you can request a custom price and package from the vendor.

4. Processmaker

Next on our list is ProcessMaker, a user-friendly online business process management solution that allows you to customize and automate complex workflows. As an open-source platform, ProcessMaker lets you build automated workflows for various processes. These include automation for compliance process, work orders, client onboarding, invoice management, and form requests and approval among others.

Despite its advanced capabilities to tailor different workflows based on your company’s unique needs, ProcessMaker does not require IT-level coding knowledge. All you need to do is drag and drop tasks and decision points to a process modeling canvas and then add other elements, such as data connectors, users, etc. And if you need forms to display and capture data, as well as add approval screens, you can also utilize the platform’s intuitive form builder.

Pricing for this software varies depending on the type of organization and the number of users that will be added to the system.

5. Cflow

Cflow is a codeless BPM and open-source workflow automation system for human resources, sales and marketing, procurement, finance, and IT operations. This software is equipped with an extensive list of features, such as the visual workflow builder. This feature lets you design a flowchart-based workflow by simply dragging and dropping process stages and setting rules and conditions that serve as triggers for automated actions.

Automating workflows involves routing tasks, documents, etc., to different individuals and departments. Cflow recognizes that this crucial part of the workflow is where bottlenecks usually happen. To make sure that all routed processes are given immediate attention, Cflow provides a range of routing and notification options. You can also create smart forms for internal use or for gathering customer information, feedback, etc., from your website. Other features offered by Cflow are document management and the capability to sign documents electronically to eliminate time-consuming manual procedures. As for integrations, Cflow connects with third-party applications like Mailchimp, Slack, Dropbox, and Salesforce.

In terms of pricing, Cflow’s subscription plans start at $7 per user per month.

6. Joget Workflow

Joget Workflow is a completely online workflow management system open source to enable you to build and run web- and mobile-based applications. To make application development, business automation, and workflow management more efficient, this software provides you with a process builder that you can use to design business applications and execute workflow processes.

What makes Joget Workflow ideal as a workflow automation software is it accommodates both coders and non-coders by providing them with appropriate tools to build business apps and create workflow processes. Non-coders get access to the drag-and-drop app builder and those who prefer the more technical process can choose from the broad range of plugins available in Joget Marketplace.

Joget Workflow is offered in cloud and on-premise editions. Pricing for the cloud platform starts at $2 per user per month. Meanwhile, the community on-premise edition is free and the premium versions start at $40 per user.

7. Swiftype

Swiftype is a cloud-based search engine tool that you can add to your website to boost customer engagement, as well as increase conversions. This application is particularly helpful in ecommerce sites, publishing, and customer support pages among others. It is also easy to add to your website as Swiftype automatically indexes your site and rolls out your own intuitive search tool without any manual coding. But if you prefer to have more control of your search app’s style and functionality, you can use Swiftype’s API to do more configurations.

This application provides users with an advanced search algorithm and language modeling intelligence that autocorrects, phrase matches, generates synonyms, and more to deliver more accurate results. Swiftype also has its maintenance-free web crawler that you can deploy on schedule or real time. Furthermore, its search analytics feature gives you a clear insight into how potential customers interact with your search engine. You will be able to see real-time searches and clicks, your website’s most popular content, as well as the content or product your site visitors have trouble finding. This way, you can make improvements to your search engine’s functionalities as well as your website’s content right away and deliver a better experience to your customers.

Swiftype offers three types of subscription plans for growing businesses and large enterprises. Pricing starts at $79 per month.

8. Kanboard

Kanboard is a free self-hosted open-source project management solution that provides users with a minimalist but highly functional platform. As implied by its name, Kanboard utilizes Kanban boards to give users clear visuals of project status. Adding and moving tasks is also as easy as dragging and dropping color-coded boards between columns. You can also easily break tasks into subtasks, as well as create duplicates for repetitive tasks and subtasks for more efficiency.

Speaking of efficiency, Kanboard enables you to automate workflows by simply adding an event, selecting the appropriate actions, and configuring additional parameters. To give you further insight into your projects, Kanboard provides you with its own project analytics tools that give you a view of project status, task distribution, average lead and cycle time, and more. As an open-source software, Kanboard offers a wide range of plugins that users can install to extend the platform’s functionalities. Some of these plugins are GitHub Webhook, Gantt charts, database storage, and more.

9. Apache Airflow

Another open-source platform with workflow authoring, scheduling, and monitoring capabilities is Apache Airflow. Originally developed by Airbnb, Apache Airflow utilizes Python to create any type of workflow and automate it. And because this platform is agnostic, you can basically run anything on it. Furthermore, users are also only required to have basic Python knowledge or a little scripting and programming experience to utilize the platform’s functionalities.

In terms of integration, Apache Airflow uses REST API to extend its functionalities by integrating with other applications. For service error tracking, this software integrates with Sentry. Apache Airflow also has a very active community of developers who continue to improve its architecture and overall ecosystem by fixing bugs, adding new features, improving documentation, and more.

10. Apache Taverna

The last one on our list of the best open-source workflow management software Apache Taverna is a domain-independent workflow management platform commonly used in designing and executing experimental and scientific workflows. One of its core features is Taverna Workbench, which is a client app that enables users to create, modify, and run workflows on their desktop computer. Taverna Online, on the other hand, allows you to do the same from a web browser. Apache Taverna also has a Taverna Mobile, which currently only allows you to run Taverna workflows from Android devices.

Aside from the tools that enable you to create scientific workflows from scratch, Apache Taverna also allows you to search for workflows created by other users in websites like myExperiment. You can download these workflows, modify them, using Taverna Workbench, as well as share them with other users.

What are the key features to look for in workflow management software?

When choosing workflow management software, prioritize features that enhance productivity, collaboration, and efficiency. Here are key features to consider:

• Task Automation: Automating repetitive tasks saves time and reduces human error. Look for tools that allow conditional triggers, automated task assignments, and notifications to streamline workflows.
• Tracking and Reporting: Real-time monitoring provides insights into project progress, helping managers allocate resources effectively. Reporting capabilities also offer performance analytics, enabling data-driven decisions.
• Collaboration Tools: Integrated communication, shared dashboards, and collaborative task boards allow teams to work together seamlessly, especially in remote or hybrid work environments.
• Customizable Workflows: Every organization has unique processes. Choose software with flexible, customizable workflow options that tailor steps, forms, and approvals to fit your requirements.
• Integration Capabilities: Seamless integration with other tools, such as CRMs, email clients, and document management systems, allows smoother data flow and better platform alignment.

Is open-source software right for you?

The battle between open source and proprietary software systems often ends in the user’s preference in the level of control they want to have. When it comes to flexibility, control, and cost, open-source technology wins over proprietary software by a mile. This, however, comes with a price as open-source systems definitely have their downsides.

One of the disadvantages of using an open-source solution is the lack of dedicated technical support. Unlike proprietary software companies that often have teams to help their clients if there are software issues, open-source software troubleshooting heavily relies on community forums where users have to ask for help from other members or search for existing solutions.

But considering the benefits of having very flexible and little to no-cost software in your hands, this can be a minor inconvenience on your part. Whether you are in the process of digitizing your workflows or just looking for a more flexible and low-cost option, this list of the best open-source workflow management software might be a good place to start.

If you’re still on the fence about which application to settle on, why not do a little hands-on run of vtenext, the leading open-source workflow management tool on our list? It will give you a good feel of this class of solutions and identify gaps that you would like filled in. You can easily do so by availing of the free trial offered by vtenext.

Key Insights

• vtenext: An all-in-one CRM solution with an open-source framework that supports automation of core business processes, including marketing, sales, and customer service. It offers a mobile app and over 100 plugins, making it highly customizable without requiring advanced coding skills.
• Bitrix24: A free, cloud-based software providing robust features for project management, CRM, communication, sales, and HR automation. It offers a business process designer and integration with over 100 applications. Premium plans are available for more advanced features.
• Taiga.io: Designed for agile development teams, this software offers extensive workflow customization, including Kanban and Scrum frameworks, issue tracking, and role-based access. It is free for teams with up to 15 users, with premium plans available for larger teams.
• Processmaker: A user-friendly business process management solution that allows for the customization and automation of complex workflows. It offers a drag-and-drop process modeling canvas and intuitive form builder, making it accessible to users without IT-level coding knowledge.
• Cflow: A codeless BPM and workflow automation system for various business operations. It features a visual workflow builder, document management, electronic signatures, and integration with third-party applications. Subscription plans start at $7 per user per month.
• Joget Workflow: An online workflow management system that supports no-code/low-code app building and development. It offers a process builder and a range of plugins, suitable for both coders and non-coders. Pricing starts at $2 per user per month for the cloud platform.
• Swiftype: A cloud-based search engine tool that enhances customer engagement and conversions on websites. It features advanced search algorithms, maintenance-free web crawlers, and detailed search analytics. Subscription plans start at $79 per month.
• Kanboard: A minimalist, self-hosted project management solution using Kanban boards. It offers task automation, project analytics, and a variety of plugins. It is a free and open-source platform.
• Apache Airflow: A workflow authoring, scheduling, and monitoring platform developed by Airbnb. It uses Python for creating and automating workflows and integrates with other applications using REST API.
• Apache Taverna: A domain-independent workflow management platform used for experimental and scientific workflows. It offers tools like Taverna Workbench and Taverna Online for creating and running workflows on desktop and web browsers.

FAQ

1. What is the best open-source workflow management software in 2024? The best open-source workflow management software in 2024 is vtenext, which offers a comprehensive CRM solution with a business process management engine that supports automation across various business functions.
2. What are the key features of Bitrix24? Bitrix24 provides features such as project management, CRM, communication, sales, HR automation, and a business process designer. It also integrates with over 100 applications and offers both cloud-based and on-premise versions.
3. How does Taiga.io support agile development teams? Taiga.io supports agile development teams by offering extensive workflow customization, including Kanban and Scrum frameworks, issue tracking, and role-based access. It allows for the creation of multiple workflows and setting work-in-progress limits.
4. What makes Processmaker user-friendly for workflow automation? Processmaker is user-friendly due to its drag-and-drop process modeling canvas and intuitive form builder, which allows users to customize and automate workflows without needing advanced coding skills.
5. What integrations does Cflow support? Cflow supports integrations with third-party applications such as Mailchimp, Slack, Dropbox, and Salesforce. It also offers features like a visual workflow builder, document management, and electronic signatures.
6. How does Joget Workflow accommodate both coders and non-coders? Joget Workflow accommodates both coders and non-coders by providing a drag-and-drop app builder for non-coders and a broad range of plugins for those who prefer more technical processes. It supports no-code/low-code app development and workflow automation.
7. What are the benefits of using Swiftype on a website? Swiftype enhances customer engagement and conversions by providing advanced search algorithms, maintenance-free web crawlers, and detailed search analytics. It improves the accuracy of search results and offers insights into customer interactions with the search engine.
8. How does Kanboard facilitate project management? Kanboard facilitates project management by using Kanban boards to provide clear visuals of project status. It offers features such as task automation, project analytics, and a variety of plugins to extend its functionalities.
9. What programming knowledge is required for using Apache Airflow? Users of Apache Airflow are only required to have basic Python knowledge or some scripting and programming experience to utilize its workflow authoring, scheduling, and monitoring capabilities.
10. What tools does Apache Taverna offer for scientific workflows? Apache Taverna offers tools like Taverna Workbench for creating, modifying, and running workflows on desktop computers, and Taverna Online for web-based workflow management. It also provides a Taverna Mobile app for running workflows on Android devices.

By Louie Andre

B2B & SaaS market analyst and senior writer for FinancesOnline. He is most interested in project management solutions, believing all businesses are a work in progress. From pitch deck to exit strategy, he is no stranger to project business hiccups and essentials. He has been involved in a few internet startups including a digital route planner for a triple A affiliate. His advice to vendors and users alike? "Think of benefits, not features."