This n8n workflow demonstrates a sophisticated approach to handling asynchronous processes and external triggers by utilizing webhooks, HTTP requests, and workflow joining techniques. The workflow is designed to initiate an independent process, wait for an external event to resume it, and then process the resumed data seamlessly.

The process begins with a manual trigger, allowing users to start the workflow on demand. It then creates a ‘primary execution’ context and sends an HTTP POST request to initiate an independent process externally, passing a ‘resumeUrl’ to enable later rejoining. A webhook serves as a secondary trigger, allowing an unrelated external event to send data back and resume the original process.

When the external event occurs, it hits the webhook, and the workflow captures the input, including a ‘resumeUrl’ that points back to the waiting node in the primary process. The workflow then makes an HTTP request to this ‘resumeUrl’ to resume the original process, passing along relevant data such as jokes or messages obtained from external services. Sticky notes are used throughout for documentation and visual clarity.

This setup is practical in scenarios where external systems or users need to independently trigger actions that eventually connect back to the main workflow, such as in complex integrations involving chatbots, callback mechanisms, or distributed processing. It ensures a controlled, sequential execution flow while allowing asynchronous external interactions.