Detect Changes Node in Pathways

The Detect Changes node is used to monitor specific variables or expressions within a workflow and detect if any changes occur after executing a series of tasks. This node helps identify dynamic changes in data during the workflow's runtime, enabling more responsive and adaptive process handling.

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Configuration Fields

1. Name:
   • Description: The unique name of the "Detect Changes" node.
   • Requirement: Optional but recommended for clarity in workflows.
2. Tracked Expression:
   • Description: Defines the variable or expression to monitor for changes during workflow execution.
   • Options:
     • Script: Use a script-based expression for complex logic and evaluations.
     • Handlebars Template: Use a Handlebars-based template for straightforward dynamic evaluations.
   • Requirement: Mandatory. You must specify the tracked expression.
3. Output Flag Variable Name:
   • Description: The name of the output variable that will store a flag indicating whether a change was detected.
   • Values:
     • The output variable will be assigned a boolean value:
       • true: If a change in the tracked expression is detected.
       • false: If no change is detected.
   • Requirement: Mandatory.

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Usage Example

1. Scenario:
   • Monitor the status of a database query result during a workflow. If the result changes (e.g., a new record is added), trigger a subsequent task to process the updated data.
2. Setup:
   • Set Tracked Expression to evaluate the database query output.
   • Specify an output flag variable name like isChanged.
   • Use a conditional node later in the workflow to check the isChanged flag and decide the next steps.

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Key Features

• Dynamic Monitoring: Tracks changes to expressions or variables in real time.
• Customizable Expressions: Supports both script-based and Handlebars Template logic.
• Change Detection Output: Provides a boolean flag for conditional logic downstream in the workflow.

This node is essential for workflows that depend on detecting changes in state or data to trigger dynamic actions.