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Goal

This page explains the three trigger patterns in Sanka workflows—event, time, and manual—so you can choose the right one for each automation.

What is a trigger?

A trigger is what starts a workflow run. Choose based on how you want the workflow to begin:
TypeBest forExample
Event triggerReacting to record changesWhen an order status is confirmed, allocate inventory
Time triggerRunning on a scheduleEvery morning at 9:00, notify about overdue tasks
Manual triggerRunning only when neededRun a month-end batch once

Event trigger

Use when you want automation to run right after a record is created or updated. Add conditions to limit runs to only the cases you care about (for example, “status = confirmed”).

Time trigger

Use when you want the workflow to run on a schedule (daily/weekly/monthly). Confirm your workspace time zone and filter the target records to avoid unnecessary work.

Manual trigger

Use when a person should decide when to run the workflow (spot checks, exceptions, or initial verification). Define who is allowed to run it to prevent unintended executions.

Operational tips

  • Start with strict conditions and expand after verifying results.
  • Prevent duplicate processing by designing “run once” rules (conditions/status updates).
  • After running, review workflow history and the affected records to confirm expected behavior.