Book Publication Workflow - Activity Diagram
This activity diagram illustrates a simplified book publishing workflow from manuscript submission to final publication, demonstrating how different roles collaborate in the publishing process using PlantUML swimlanes.
Swimlanes and Responsibilities:
Author Swimlane
Key Activities:
- Submit initial manuscript to publisher
- Revise manuscript based on editorial feedback
- Review and approve final proof before publication
- Sign publication agreement to authorize printing
Editor Swimlane
Key Activities:
- Review submitted manuscript for publication potential
- Make accept/reject decision based on quality and market fit
- Edit content for clarity, structure, and consistency
- Determine if major revisions are needed from author
- Finalize edited manuscript for design phase
Designer Swimlane
Key Activities:
- Create book layout and interior design
- Design book cover and visual elements
- Address any design changes requested by author
Publisher Swimlane
Key Activities:
- Print books using final approved files
- Distribute books to retailers and markets
Key Decision Points:
Editorial Decision Gate:
- Accept: Manuscript proceeds to editing phase
- Reject: Author receives rejection, process ends
Revision Decision Gate:
- Revisions Needed: Manuscript returned to author for changes
- No Revisions: Manuscript proceeds directly to finalization
Author Approval Gate:
- Approve: Author signs agreement, proceeds to printing
- Changes Needed: Designer makes requested modifications
Workflow Features:
Sequential Process:
- Clear progression from submission through publication
- Each phase builds on the previous completed work
- Quality gates ensure standards are met before advancing
Collaborative Approach:
- Multiple roles contribute specialized expertise
- Author maintains creative control with approval rights
- Professional editing and design enhance final product
Feedback Loops:
- Author revision cycle for content improvement
- Design iteration based on author feedback
- Multiple approval checkpoints ensure quality
This streamlined workflow demonstrates how PlantUML activity diagrams with swimlanes can effectively show multi-role business processes, decision points, and collaborative workflows in an accessible format.