Workflow Standards for e-Science

e-Science research relies on the ability to undertake collaborative scientific experiments using large data sets, which are often distributed across different computer networks or data grids. Automated processes, undertaken to obtain successful experiment and simulation results, encompass a number of data actions, including: acquisition, transformation, analysis, annotation, resource discovery, linking and visualisation. These processes need to be logical, structured, reliable, repeatable and verifiable, with the ability to audit results for legal requirements, research evaluation and funding applications. Workflow techniques ensure that automated procedures are undertaken in the correct sequence, according to a defined set of rules, to achieve an overall goal. This paper discusses the functionality and implementation of a number of standards which help ensure successful workflow for e-science.