Starting Parallel Runs
Learn how to start parallel runs in Kognitos.
Overview
In Kognitos, you can call a subprocess using the start a run syntax. This method allows the parent process to manage the subprocess, including explicitly waiting for it, retrieving the status of the run, and fetching its output. When multiple instances of a subprocess are called this way, they will run in parallel.
How Can I Start Parallel Runs?
This section describes how to start parallel runs using the start a run syntax.
Syntax
Parameters
item: Object to loop over.subprocess name: The name of the subprocess.input: Objects to pass to the subprocess, if necessary.
Example
Click here to walk through an end-to-end example.
Remember to Publish Your Process
You need to promote your automation from the Playground to a Process in order to start parallel runs. This applies to both the main parent process and the subprocess. Otherwise, you will get an Assertion Error saying procedure not found.
Handling Subprocess Runs
A parent process can explicitly wait for the runs of a subprocess. By waiting for completion, a parent process can also collect the data and outputs from all the subprocess runs.
Adding an Explicit Wait
To add an explicit wait, include the following line into your automation after starting parallel runs:
Once this is executed, a tab will appear in the user interface, allowing you to view the status of each individual run.
Customizing the Wait Time
You can customize the wait time by adjusting the wait count before starting parallel runs.
The wait count refers to the number of 5-second intervals.
The wait time is calculated by multiplying the wait count by 5.
The default wait count is 60.
The default wait time is 5 minutes (60 x 5 = 300 seconds, or 5 minutes).
In the example below, setting intervals to 3 results in a total wait time of 15 seconds (3 x 5 seconds).
Getting Output From Parallel Runs
To get results from subprocesses that are called with the start a run syntax, you must add an explicit get into the parent process after adding a wait.
Syntax
Here, the thing is the output you would like to retrieve.
Note: Currently, only one output can be retrieved at a time using this syntax.
Example
🚧 Note: Matching Parent and Subprocess Output
The get call in the parent process must match the name of the data element used in the subprocess when retrieving output.
Example: If the subprocess data is named
status, the parent process should retrieve it usingget the runs's status.Automatic Pluralization: If there are multiple runs, the system will automatically pluralize the output in the parent process (e.g.,
statuses).
Walkthrough: Run Parallelization
This is an example walkthrough of invoking multiple instances of a subprocess in parallel runs.
Parent Process
Line 1
The wait count is set to 10 seconds (2 intervals of 5 seconds).
Line 2
A data element is defined as a list of names.
Line 3
Initiates a loop across the list of names.
Line 4
Initiates subprocess invocation using start a run where syntax.
Line 5
Specifies the name of the published subprocess to call.
Line 6
Passes input to the subprocess: the name is passed as the user.
Line 7
Sets an explicit wait for the subprocess runs.
Line 8
Explicitly retrieves the greeting output from the subprocess runs.
Subprocess
Line 1
Data is defined as a string that says "Hello "
Line 2
The user is added to the end of the greeting.
Line 3
The automation outputs a greeting with the user's name at the end.
Subprocess Output
In line 9, the greetings is referenced as output from the subprocess runs. The results are:
Hello Eva
Hello Ian
Hello Leo
Hello Nia
Hello Zoe
Additionally, each individual run can be clicked through in the platform:
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