The Workflow feature in Beamr Cloud is designed to automate and simplify your video optimization and conversion tasks.

By allowing you to link directly to your cloud storage solutions such as AWS S3, it enables you to precisely customize your video processing requirements. From setting specific parameters to choosing output destinations, the Workflow tool is engineered to enhance efficiency, saving you valuable time and reducing manual efforts in managing your video processing pipelines.

Workflow types

Drag & Drop

This manual option allows you to upload files by dragging and dropping them directly into the interface. It's perfect for ad-hoc or one-time operations where immediate processing is needed without the setup of automated triggers.

Batch Processing
Ideal for handling large volumes of files, batch processing connects to your AWS S3 source bucket. The system automatically processes and optimizes the files en masse. You have the flexibility to configure the workflow either to overwrite the existing files in the source bucket or to place the optimized outputs in a different designated bucket.
 
Live Monitor
The live monitor workflow is set up for real-time processing. It continuously checks your connected S3 source bucket for new files. As soon as a new file lands in the bucket, the system processes it, ensuring a steady stream of optimized content is always being generated.
 
API Driven
This option allows for seamless integration with your existing systems. Set up the workflow to be triggered through API calls, giving you the flexibility to initiate processing based on your custom business logic and event-driven requirements.

Creating a new workflow 

1. + New Workflow

From the My Workflows page, press on the ‘+New Workflow’ button or card.

2.  Name your Workflow

Assign a distinctive name to your workflow for easy identification later on.

3. Workflow Type

Select a trigger mechanism that suits your needs. This decision will influence the options available in subsequent steps. Familiarize yourself with different types by reading the detailed descriptions here.

4. Source

Define the origin of the video files for processing. This setting correlates with the selected workflow type.

  • Options include:
    • S3 Bucket: Use this if your AWS storage is the source. Input the 'Bucket Name' and 'AWS ID' provided by your IT or DevOps team after they configure the necessary permissions.
    • Beamr Cloud Storage: Offers up to 1GB of free space. Choose this if you prefer internal storage.

5. Presets

Select the desired presets to apply specific settings and optimizations to your source files.

  • Presets define the output settings for your video files. Select from a variety of presets to determine the quality, format, and other specifications for the processed videos. You can view the details of the presets visiting ‘My Presets’ page.
  • You can add up to six unique presets to customize the outputs for different platforms or purposes.
    Once a preset is applied, it's removed from the list to ensure each output is distinct.

6. Destination

Specify the output location for processed video files.

  • Specify where the processed video files will be stored. You can opt for Beamr's internal storage with 1GB capacity or link to an S3 bucket for more space. Similar to the source setup, connecting to an S3 bucket requires the 'Bucket Name' and 'AWS ID'.
  • Follow the 'How to Connect your S3 Bucket' guide to easily connect your S3 AWS Bucket/s

7. Save Workflow

Once you've configured all settings, hit the 'Save Workflow' button to store your new workflow.

Managing Workflows

To access and manage your workflows, go to the "Workflows" tab. This dashboard (’My Workflows’) provides a snapshot of all your existing workflows, detailing key attributes such as the type of workflow, the name, and the creation date. The interface is crafted for user-friendly interaction, allowing you to seamlessly create new workflows, monitor ongoing processes, and adjust settings as needed, all from one central location.

 

Workflow statistics 

The "Workflow Details Page" is designed to provide you with an in-depth view of your workflow's video processing activities.

Usage

The page is accessible from the "My Workflows" section select the "Go to Workflow" link associated with a specific workflow card. It supports two primary workflow categories:
 
1. Drag and Drop Workflows: These workflows are interactive and allow users to manually upload videos via a drag-and-drop interface. Ideal for ad-hoc or one-time workflow operations, users can select files from their device and swiftly process them.
 
2. Batch Process/Live-monitor Workflows: These are connected to an AWS S3 source bucket for batch processing or real-time monitoring. The system automatically processes and optimizes the files, either replacing the original files in the source bucket or outputting the optimized files to a different specified bucket. It continuously monitors for new files and processes them as they arrive, ensuring a constant flow of optimized content.

Features and Functionalities

  • Drop interface (Drag & Drop Workflow type only): A designated area that allows you to upload video files manually. This interface simplifies the workflow for users who prefer direct interaction with the system.

 

  • Video Processing Information: Displays a detailed list of video files that have been processed, along with specific metrics such as the input and output sizes, the percentage of size reduction (savings), and the status of each file, which includes options to download the processed files.

 

  • Progress Tracking: Users can monitor the processing status of each video file and download the output once it's available.

 

  • Workflow Statistics: Provides summary data on video processing, including total input and output video file sizes, the total number of video files, and overall savings in terms of storage space and efficiency gains.

 

Editing a Workflow

Editing workflows is a crucial feature that provides flexibility and control over video processing operations. Here's how the editing process works:

Accessing the Editing Interface

  • Navigate to the 'My Workflows' section (through the 'Workflows' tab).
  • Locate the workflow you wish to edit and hover over it.
  • Click on the three dots that appear to reveal additional options.
  • Select Edit from the dropdown menu.

Editing Restrictions

  • You cannot edit a workflow if it is currently Running in a batch process.
  • Workflows set as 'On' for Live Monitor or API Driven types are also not editable during their active state.

Editing Process

  • After selecting Edit, the existing workflow configuration is displayed.
  • The editing interface is intuitive, mirroring the 'New Workflow' creation process but with the advantage of showing the current settings.
  • Users can modify any step or setting within the workflow.
  • To finalize changes, click the Save button to update the workflow configuration.
 
By using the edit function, you can ensure that your workflows remain up-to-date and aligned with your operational needs, all within a consistent and user-friendly environment. This feature underscores the system's commitment to operational integrity while allowing for the necessary flexibility in workflow management.
 

Deleting a Workflow

Deleting a workflow is a straightforward but critical action within the video processing system. Here's a step-by-step guide on how the deletion process works:

  1. Navigate to the My Workflows section.
  2. Locate the workflow you wish to delete.
  3. Click on the three dots to access additional options.
  4. Select Delete from the dropdown menu.

Restrictions and Conditions

  • You can’t delete a workflow created by Beamr.
  • The workflow must not be running or turned on; it should be in an inactive or 'Off' state to proceed with deletion.
  • If the workflow is currently active or restrictions apply, the delete option will be disabled.

Confirmation Process

  • Upon selecting the delete option, a confirmation modal will pop up.
  • You must confirm your intention to delete the workflow.
  • This confirmation step is an essential safeguard to prevent accidental deletions.