Abstract

CamBAfx is a workflow application designed for both researchers who use workflows to process data (consumers) and those who design them (designers). It provides a front-end (user
interface) optimized for data processing designed in a way familiar to consumers. The back-end
uses a pipeline model to represent workfl ows since this is a common and useful metaphor used
by designers and is easy to manipulate compared to other representations like programming
scripts. As an Eclipse Rich Client Platform application, CamBAfx’s pipelines and functions can
be bundled with the software or downloaded post-installation. The user interface contains all the
workfl ow facilities expected by consumers. Using the Eclipse Extension Mechanism designers
are encouraged to customize CamBAfx for their own pipelines. CamBAfx wraps a workfl ow
facility around neuroinformatics software without modifi cation. CamBAfx’s design, licensing
and Eclipse Branding Mechanism allow it to be used as the user interface for other software,
facilitating exchange of innovative computational tools between originating labs.