System and method for automated generation of a fully parameterized workflow plan

This invention outlines a method to automatically generate detailed, step-by-step plans for complex tasks, such as those found in rendering or printing environments. It works by taking descriptions of what various devices can do and what the final product should be, then feeding this information into an automated planning system. This system first creates a general plan, which is then refined by another program into a fully specified set of instructions. The claims specifically detail how device capabilities are read, augmented with additional information, and converted into a format suitable for the automated planner.