Thanks to the flowchart, the company is able to organize and plan its processes in order to maximize its chances of success. This generic tool can be used in various applications and provides a visual description of the sequence of tasks and activities of the analyzed process.
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Table of Contents
What is a flowchart?
Using a flowchart consists of graphically representing the information flow of a process or system. It illustrates the sequence of operations to be carried out in order to obtain the expected result or the resolution of a defined problem.
The flowchart uses symbols (circles, diamonds, rectangles, arrows) and labels to represent the flow of processes, describe the tasks to be performed at each stage and formalize the links between the different stages.
This type of diagram can be used in different types of processes, whether manufacturing, administrative, service, or project.
Why make a flowchart?
The flowchart is useful in creating new business processes. It identifies the key elements and clearly defines the beginning and the end. Modeling a process improves quality and efficiency.
Thanks to the flowchart, all team members involved in the project benefit from a single representation and a common understanding of the process.
Workflows are also useful for identifying all the people involved in managing the project and helping them understand their respective roles and the order in which the work should be done.
In addition, the flowchart helps to quickly detect problems, identify their causes and implement solutions for improvement. This diagram is complementary to the MoSCoW method, the latter making it possible to identify the priority tasks and those which are not.
Examples of flowcharts
The process flowchart
The process flow diagram is certainly the most used model. As its name suggests, it describes the process step by step. It allows to map the roles and responsibilities of each member of the team in charge of the project and to inform a complex workflow.
The workflow diagram
The workflow diagram, on the other hand, defines how documents or information flow through the business. It can be used when training a newcomer, for example.
The data flow diagram
The data flow diagram highlights how data is processed in the business.
How to make a flowchart?
Identify a pattern
The first step is to choose the template from which the flowchart will be created. It can be carried out using a specialized platform such as Lucidchart or Wireflow or simply using spreadsheet software such as Excel.
Set start and end event
It is then necessary to define a start and end event. These are materialized by two rectangles with rounded edges.
Add steps in chronological order
Each step of the process is integrated into the diagram one after the other in chronological order of execution. An activity is represented by a rectangle, a decision point by a diamond.
Flow lines denote the connections between stages, the progression or transition from one stage to another.
Check the flowchart
The flowchart should be reviewed and validated by everyone involved in the process. Each symbol (step, decision point) and each transition must be examined in order to detect possible redundancies or inconsistencies. The diagram should also be checked as a whole to ensure that the flow is logical and justified.
To go further, download this free guide to project management and learn how optimize your project management, thanks to the appropriate method and the right tools.
