Definition
A model of a system as explicit states and permitted transitions triggered by events or conditions. An agent graph can be understood as a state machine when the workflow, carried state, and transition rules are explicit.
Distinguish it from nearby terms
A state machine emphasizes valid states and transitions. A workflow emphasizes activities and outcomes. An execution trace records which transitions actually occurred.
Check your understanding
Persist state outside the model so a retry or restart can determine what has already happened and which transitions remain valid.