Methods and systems for managing workflow

A web-based system for managing workflow, said system comprising:

• at least one client system comprising a browser;
• and
• a server further comprising a database of deal data, said server configured to be coupled to said client system, and further configured to:
• upload initial proposed deal data;
• upload a workflow timeline for the proposed deal including estimated task completion times;
• notify responsible persons that actions for tasks are due according to the timeline;
• record actual task completion times;
• compare the estimated and actual task completion times;
• upload comparison results for storage in said database;
• create a knowledge base for generating future workflow timelines based on an analysis of the comparison results;
• and
• generate future workflow timelines based upon said knowledge base.

A method for managing workflow within a company using a web-based system, including a server having a centralized database of deal data and at least one client system, said method comprising the steps of:

• uploading initial proposed deal data including at least one of a deal category, a deal type, a deal class, a financial commitment, a deal status, and a financing need;
• uploading access privileges for individuals internal and external to the company including at least one of an underwriter, a portfolio manager, internal legal counsel, and external legal counsel;
• uploading a workflow timeline for the proposed deal including estimated task completion times;
• notifying responsible persons that actions for tasks are due according to the timeline;
• recording actual task completion times;
• comparing estimated and actual task completion times;
• uploading comparison results to the server for storage in the database;
• creating a knowledge base for generating future workflow timelines based on an analysis of the comparison results;
• and
• generating future workflow timelines based upon the knowledge base.