Gridflow Description, Query, and Execution at SCEC using the SDSC Matrix

While conventional workflow systems have been around for many years, the deployment of analogous systems onto a grid infrastructure introduces a number of unique questions and challenges. Innovative approaches to grid workflow (gridflow) are needed to leverage the heterogeneity, autonomy, dynamic behavior, and wide-area distribution that characterize grid resources. The Matrix Project carries out research and development to deliver the language descriptions and protocols necessary to build collaborative gridflow management systems for the emerging grid infrastructures. We describe here our activities to date including development of the Data Grid Language (DGL) and the usage of the Matrix gridflow management system by the Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC) to manage its gridflows.