Navigating Workflow Flexibility: Getting More from Navgar’s Flow Module
We're thrilled that an exciting new role has opened at Navgar, and just like any other task we handle on our platform, we practice what we preach. We walk the talk by utilizing Navgar's cutting-edge capabilities to streamline our internal processes and feel both the magic and the pain. Among the very first features we experimented with in our initial prototype were the hiring flows we would use to build our company. As a compact team, meticulous candidate evaluation is crucial for us. This involves a multi-phase approach with numerous steps (initial screen, homework and debrief, technical interview, culture fit assessment, and more), involving multiple team members, and a significant amount of scheduling coordination via email.
Having experienced the chaos of recruitment in a prior startup venture, I was determined to learn from past mistakes. While Navgar efficiently helped me overcome past pitfalls, new challenges inevitably arose. Let’s dive into the details...
To support our recruiting efforts, I meticulously crafted a comprehensive and structured flow for coordinating our activities for a specific role. However, I soon found myself facing another new role with distinct requirements from the first, rendering my existing structure almost irrelevant. This realization converted me into an advocate for what has now evolved into our innovative cloning flows feature. Armed with this tool, I could clone and iterate on my existing flow, tailoring it seamlessly to the unique needs of each new role.
While the introduction of cloning alleviated some challenges, I ended up reshuffling a multitude of individual tasks in the new iteration, reminiscent of rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic. This process led me to yearn for more granular control over the timing of system-generated emails sent to potential candidates, and occasionally, the ability to prevent the system altogether from sending those emails, in the nick of time.
Eventually, a transformative concept emerged: I didn't need monolithic, rigid flows for the work at hand. Instead, I required agile micro-flows tailored to specific recruitment phases. These could be stacked and rearranged at will, fitting seamlessly into the ongoing sequence of tasks or being temporarily excluded, depending on the situation.
Here's the robust solution I devised, albeit with a touch of initial overhead:
I designed a series of subflows to serve as building blocks within a master flow, representing distinct phases of the overarching process, each with its necessary tasks (“Send Homework assignment,” “Provide in-line Feedback on your session with the candidate,” etc.).
If a subflow included an email task, I introduced a predecessor task labeled "Trigger Email." This provided the precision to fire the email when needed or bypass it altogether. To ensure no vital tasks were skipped when the email step was excluded (today you are able to skip to the end of a subflow, but not individual steps), I positioned the email task as the subflow's last step. For important tasks following an email, I crafted separate subflows that could be replicated and reused within the master flow.
I assembled all pertinent subflows and variants into the master flow, labeled them for clarity, and provided detailed descriptions. Once satisfied, I hit "Launch."
The result is a recruitment flow that's both comprehensive and dynamic. I now have the flexibility to choose from multiple pathways throughout the journey. It's worth noting that while this intricate flow demands monitoring and decision-making, the underlying assembly logic is robust. This approach empowers you to maintain control and choice within your own flows, promoting a dynamic and personalized experience.
Embracing flexibility doesn't mean sacrificing structure. It's about creating a balance that empowers you to adapt without losing sight of your goals. Just like we've experienced with Navgar, it can support your flexible approach can make a significant difference in your overall efficiency and peace of mind.
