Workflow Locking Records In HR

[Jensen, Ralph]

Colleagues,
I am in need some input and guidance...
 
We're running 4.6C HR and MDT
 
They want to automate their Personnel Change Request Process (Yes, I know it
is MSS functionality in the Enterprise Portal but, they do not currently
have the Portal)
 
They would like to have changes to master data e.g., change in basic pay
(IT108), made by department managers but, have the changes not be effective
until reviewed and approved by HR specialists.
 
One approach that we are considering is to us a personnel action for pay
change,  trigger a workflow from a dynamic action on IT008 which will lock
the record and notify the HR specialists that the change has been made.  The
HR specialists would open the WF work item, review the changes and
approve/unlock the record or reject/leave record locked returning the work
item to the initiator.
 
An alternative approach is to let the change be made to the Master data, not
lock the record and notify the HR Specialist to review the changes.
 
Can anyone give me guidance on what issues might arise with either approach?
 
Whether to use a Payroll lock on the record or just lock the infotype (for a
new hire without an existing IT008 I'm advised that we cannot use an
infotype lock). Does this business of locking records set us up for
problems?
 
Do any of you have experiences with a similar situation?  Can you propose
other approaches?
 
Thanks!