4.3.1 Understand the concept of and need for flow charts.
Flowchart
A flowchart is a visual representation of the sequence of steps and decisions needed to
perform a process.
Each step in the sequence is noted within a diagram shape.
Steps are linked by connecting lines and directional arrows.
This allows anyone to view the flowchart and logically follow the process from beginning
to end.
A flowchart is a powerful business tool. With proper design and construction, it
communicates the steps in a process very effectively and efficiently.
Flowchart Symbols
Common Flowchart Symbols
Flowcharts use special shapes to represent different types of actions or steps in a process.
Lines and arrows show the sequence of the steps, and the relationships among them.
These are known as flowchart symbols.
Rectangle Shape - Represents a process
Oval or Pill Shape - Represents the start or end
Diamond Shape - Represents a decision
Parallelogram - Represents input/output
What are the Basic Symbols of a Flowchart?
You'll notice that the flowchart has different shapes.
In this case, there are two shapes: those with rounded ends represent the start and end
points of the process and rectangles are used to show the interim steps.
Types and Uses of Flowcharts
There are a wide variety of flowchart types. Here are just a few of the more commonly used
ones.
Swimlane flowcharts
Data flow diagrams
Influence diagrams
Workflow diagrams
Process flow diagrams
Yes/no flowcharts
Decision flows
Flowcharts were originally used by industrial engineers to structure work processes such as
assembly line manufacturing.
Today, flowcharts are used for a variety of purposes in manufacturing, architecture,
engineering, business, technology, education, science, medicine, government, administration
and many other disciplines.
Here are some of the ways flowcharts are used today.
Project planning
Program or system design through flowchart programming
Process documentation
Audit a process for inefficiencies or malfunctions
Map computer algorithms
Documenting workflow
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.
1. Define the process to be diagrammed. Write its title at the top of the work surface.
2. 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.
3. Brainstorm the activities that take place. Write each on a card or sticky note.
4. Arrange the activities in proper sequence.
5. When all activities are included and everyone agrees that the sequence is correct, draw
arrows to show the flow of the process.
6. 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.
COMMONLY USED SYMBOLS IN DETAILED FLOWCHARTS
One step in the process. The step is written inside the box. Usually, only one arrow
goes out of the box.
Direction of flow from one step or decision to another.
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.")
Delay or wait
Link to another page or another flowchart. The same symbol on the other page
indicates that the flow continues there.
Input or output
Document
Alternate symbols for start and end points
https://www.smartdraw.com/flowchart/?
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https://miro.com/flowchart/
