Learn how to implement “Back” functionality in your processes to allow users to return to previous steps while preserving data.
While most process flows progress in a forward direction, FlowX.AI provides capabilities for moving backwards in a process flow. This feature allows users to revisit previous steps without losing their progress or data, enhancing the flexibility and user-friendliness of your apps.
In FlowX.AI, a token represents the current position within a process instance. It moves from one node to another as the process executes, carrying process data and state information. Normally, tokens advance forward through the process flow, but sometimes you need to allow users to go back to previous steps.
Process Tokens
Learn more about tokens and how they drive process flow
First, determine which nodes in your process should allow users to navigate back to them. Typically, these are:
Key decision points
Form submission steps
Points where users might need to correct previous inputs
The beginning of logical sections in your process
2
Configure Node Actions
Select the node that should be a target for backwards navigation
Add or edit an action on this node
In the action configuration, enable the Allow BACK on this action? option
Back Action Configuration
Only configure “back” functionality on actions that make logical sense as return points in your process. Too many back points can make process state management complex.
3
Configure Data Handling
When a token is reset, you need to decide which data to retain and which to discard. Configure this using:
Remove the following objects from current state: Specify process keys that should be deleted when navigating back to this action
Copy the following objects from current state: Specify process keys that should retain their data from before the navigation
Carefully consider which data to preserve. Generally, you want to keep contextual or reference data while allowing changes to the specific data related to the step being revisited.
4
Implement UI Navigation
Add navigation controls in your user interface:
Add a “Back” button to relevant screens
Configure the button to trigger the action with back functionality
Ensure the UI updates appropriately when the user navigates back
In applications with multi-step forms or wizards, backwards navigation allows users to review and edit their inputs across different steps before final submission.
Decision Correction
When users make selections that lead down specific process paths, back functionality lets them change their mind and explore alternative options.
Error Correction
If validation occurs after a form submission and errors are found, users can navigate back to fix issues while preserving other valid inputs.
Process Review
In complex workflows like loan applications or onboarding processes, users often need to review previous sections before completing the process.
