Also called: process flowchart, process flow diagram
Variations: macro flowchart, top-down flowchart, detailed flowchart (also called process map, micro map, service map, or symbolic flowchart), deployment flowchart (also called down-across or cross-functional flowchart), several-leveled flowchart
A flowchart is a picture of the separate steps of a process in sequential order. It is a generic tool that can be adapted for a wide variety of purposes, and can be used to describe various processes, such as a manufacturing process, an administrative or service process, or a project plan. It's a common process analysis tool and one of the seven basic quality tools.
Elements that may be included in a flowchart are a sequence of actions, materials or services entering or leaving the process (inputs and outputs), decisions that must be made, people who become involved, time involved at each step, and/or process measurements.
WHEN TO USE A FLOWCHART
To develop understanding of how a process is done
To study a process for improvement
To communicate to others how a process is done
When better communication is needed between people involved with the same process
To document a process
When planning a project
FLOWCHART BASIC PROCEDURE
Materials needed: Sticky notes or cards, a large piece of flipchart paper or newsprint, and marking pens.
Define the process to be diagrammed. Write its title at the top of the work surface.
Discuss and decide on the boundaries of your process: Where or when does the process start? Where or when does it end? Discuss and decide on the level of detail to be included in the diagram.
Brainstorm the activities that take place. Write each on a card or sticky note.
Arrange the activities in proper sequence.
When all activities are included and everyone agrees that the sequence is correct, draw arrows to show the flow of the process.
Review the flowchart with others involved in the process (workers, supervisors, suppliers, customers) to see if they agree that the process is drawn accurately.
FLOWCHART CONSIDERATIONS
Don’t worry about drawing the flowchart the "right way." Ultimately, the right way is the way that helps those involved understand the process.
Identify and involve in the flowcharting process all key people involved with the process. This includes suppliers, customers, and supervisors. Involve them in the actual flowcharting sessions by interviewing them before the sessions and/or by showing them the developing flowchart between work sessions and obtaining their feedback.
Do not assign a "technical expert" to draw the flowchart. People who actually perform the process should do it.
FLOWCHART EXAMPLES
1. High-Level Flowchart for an Order-Filling Process
High-Level Flowchart for an Order-Filling Process
2. Detailed Flowchart
Detailed Flowchart
COMMONLY USED SYMBOLS IN DETAILED FLOWCHARTS
rectangle - flowchart process stepOne step in the process. The step is written inside the box. Usually, only one arrow goes out of the box.
arrow - flowchart flow direction Direction of flow from one step or decision to another.
diamond - flowchart decision step Decision based on a question. The question is written in the diamond. More than one arrow goes out of the diamond, each one showing the direction the process takes for a given answer to the question. (Often the answers are "yes" and "no.")
semi-circle - flowchart delay or waitDelay or wait
circle - flowchart link to another page or flowchartLink to another page or another flowchart. The same symbol on the other page indicates that the flow continues there.
paralellogram - flowchart input or output Input or output
flowchart document symbolDocument
rounded rectangle or oval - flowchart start and end pointsAlternate symbols for start and end points
DEVELOP A FLOWCHART
Use the flowchart template (Excel) to create a graphical representation of the steps in a process to better understand it and reveal opportunities for improvement.
FLOWCHART RESOURCES
You can also search articles, case studies, and publications for flowchart resources.
Books
Mapping Work Processes
The Quality Toolbox
Articles
Flowcharting With Excel (Quality Management Journal) A method is presented for teaching flowcharting using Microsoft Excel. While the focus is on the academic environment, the method is relevant for corporate trainers and novice users. Flowcharting is treated as a graphical language with its own vocabulary and syntax. Suggestions and precautions enhance the legibility and communicative power of the tool. In addition, extensions are offered to allow customization of individual process maps to specific user needs.
Back To Basics: Flowcharts For A Smooth Ride (Quality Progress) A flowchart might be one of the more basic of the seven tools of quality, but it is a very useful one. Flowcharts, also known as process maps, help paint a picture of a process to sort out steps and missteps.
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