Overview

Step Functions allows you to build workflows where each step performs a specific task, and the output of one step can be used as input for the next step. These workflows (called state machines) can coordinate everything from simple tasks to complex business processes.

For example, you might create a workflow that processes an uploaded image by first checking its size, then converting it to different formats, saving the results to storage, and finally sending a notification when complete. Step Functions manages the sequence and ensures each step completes successfully before moving to the next.

One of its key features is error handling. If any step fails, Step Functions can automatically retry the operation or take alternative actions you specify. It also provides visual tools to help you design and monitor your workflows, making it easier to understand complex processes.

The service automatically manages the state of your workflow, keeping track of which steps have completed and what needs to happen next. This means you don't have to write code to coordinate between different services or handle failures.

Example uses

Data Processing: Create workflows that process and analyze data across multiple services.
Order Processing: Handle e-commerce orders from payment through to fulfillment and shipping.
User Registration: Coordinate multiple steps in user signup processes, like validation, account creation, and welcome emails.
Batch Processing: Manage long-running tasks that need to be broken down into smaller steps.

Integration with other AWS services

Step Functions can coordinate with many AWS services:

AWS Lambda: Execute serverless functions as workflow steps
Amazon S3: Trigger workflows when files are uploaded
Amazon SNS: Send notifications at any point in your workflow
AWS Batch: Run batch computing jobs as part of your workflow

Think of Step Functions as your application's workflow manager, ensuring that complex processes are executed reliably and in the correct order, while automatically handling any errors that occur along the way.

AWS Step Functions