Problem
Approvals moved through inbox threads and ad-hoc spreadsheets, producing delays, unclear ownership, and limited audit visibility.
Context
The operations team needed a lightweight workflow system that could run inside existing Google Workspace tooling without adding heavy external software overhead.
Approach
- Mapped current approval lifecycle and escalation points.
- Designed standardized intake data model for repeatability.
- Defined role-based approval states and notification logic.
- Prepared support runbook for operations handover.
Implementation
Implemented Google Forms intake, Sheets tracking model, and Apps Script automations for routing, reminders, and status transitions. Added visibility controls and documentation for ongoing internal ownership.
Outcome
Approval cycle times shortened, follow-up overhead dropped, and process visibility improved for both requestors and approvers.
Relevant Technologies
- Google Forms structured request intake
- Google Sheets status and reporting layer
- Google Apps Script routing and notification automation
- Gmail-based operational notifications