What action serves as a trigger for an automated workflow?

An automated workflow in Smartsheet can be triggered by specific actions or events that occur within the system. When a date is reached, it acts as a significant milestone in project management or task completion. This means that once the predetermined date comes to pass, the workflow will initiate certain actions predefined by the user, such as notifications, reminders, or updates to rows.

For example, if a task has a due date set and that date arrives, it can automatically notify the assigned collaborator or move the task to a different status. This time-based trigger is particularly useful for maintaining timelines, ensuring project deadlines are met, and managing resources more effectively. It allows for automation that is inherently tied to the project schedule, which is a fundamental aspect of effective project management.

In contrast, other options may represent actions that are important but do not necessarily serve as automated workflow triggers. Comments from collaborators or the creation of new tasks could lead to changes in the project but typically require a different type of automation to be set up. Opening the sheet is more of an access action and does not inherently imply a change or need for automation unless further defined through user settings.