Content Based Correlation in Workflow 4.0 Beta

Note: This is based on .Net and Workflow 4.0 pre-Beta code.

Correlation is the act of sending a message outside of a process and expecting an asynchronous response returned to the same instance of that process.  Correlation is a common scenario inside business processes.  Content based correlation is using data inside the message that is sent out to return the correct response to that process. 

BizTalk Server is great at content based correlation inside Orchestrations given the publish and subscribe architecture of BizTalk Server.  Workflow 4.0 has the ability to do content based correlation and it looks and feels a lot like BizTalk.

This video takes a quick look at Content Based Correlation inside Workflow 4.0.  To set up Content Based Correlation in Workflow 4.0, you first create a correlation variable of type CorrelationHandle.  Then, you set this variable and xpath on the corresponding send and receive shapes.  This video takes you through the process step by step. 

NOTE: I had limited success with setting up correlations in other scenarios other than the provided lab starter solution from PDC.

This video runs 7:45 and is available via Flash for live play or via Windows Media Player for download.  If you would like to download this video, use the "Download Version".

Keep in mind this video is based on beta code and all content is subject to change.

To launch the Flash video in Full Screen mode, click the download link on the right.