What is a flowchart?

A flowchart (also called a process map) is a visual representation of a process or workflow. It uses standardized flowchart symbols and arrows to show the steps and their sequence, making complex processes easier to understand and analyze.

Flowcharts are used for process mapping in various fields, including:

• Software development & computer programming: To map out the logic and structure of programs, design algorithms, and troubleshoot issues.
• Project management: To plan and track tasks, dependencies, and timelines.
• Business process improvement: To identify bottlenecks and optimize workflows.
• Education: To explain complex concepts and procedures.

How do flowcharts work?

Flowcharts work by visually representing a process or workflow through a series of standardized symbols and arrows. All the flowchart shapes represent a different type of step or action within the process, while the arrows indicate the direction of flow between those steps.

Here's a breakdown of how flowcharts work:

1. Start/end: The flowchart begins with a Start symbol (usually an oval) and ends with an End symbol, clearly defining the boundaries of the process.
2. Process steps: Rectangles are used to represent individual actions or tasks within the process. The text inside the rectangle describes the specific step being taken.
3. Decisions: Diamonds signify points in the process where a decision must be made. The text inside the diamond poses a question and arrows branching out from the diamond represent the possible answers and their corresponding paths.
4. Input/output: Parallelograms indicate points where data or information enters or leaves the system. This could include inputs from users, outputs to a screen, or data being stored or retrieved.
5. Flow & sequence: Arrows and lines connect the symbols, showing the direction and order in which the steps of the process occur. The flow typically follows a top-down or left-to-right direction.

What are the benefits of flowcharts?

Flowcharts offer a wide range of benefits across various fields and applications. Here are some of the key advantages of using flowcharts:

1. Clarifying complex processes

• Visual representation: Flowcharts break down complex processes into a clear, visual format, making it easier to grasp the big picture and understand how each step contributes to the overall goal.
• Simplified understanding: By using standardized symbols and arrows, flowcharts remove ambiguity and present information in a structured, easy-to-follow manner.

2. Improving communication & collaboration

• Common language: Flowcharts provide a shared visual language for teams to discuss and understand a process, so everyone is on the same page.
• Enhanced collaboration: Flowcharts facilitate collaboration by allowing team members to visualize and contribute to the design and improvement of a process.

3. Identifying problems & inefficiencies

• Bottleneck analysis: Flowcharts help identify bottlenecks, redundancies, or unnecessary steps within a process, allowing for targeted improvements.
• Root cause analysis: By tracing the flow of information and decisions, flowcharts can reveal the root causes of problems or errors.

4. Aiding in decision-making

• Structured evaluation: Flowcharts map out possible outcomes and their consequences, providing a structured way to evaluate options and make informed decisions.
• Scenario planning: Flowcharts can be used to model different scenarios and their potential impacts, helping to anticipate challenges and plan accordingly.

5. Documenting procedures & standards

• Visual reference: Flowcharts serve as valuable documentation for training, reference, or auditing purposes.
• Standardization: Flowcharts can help standardize processes, ensuring consistency and reducing errors.

Additional benefits

• Increased efficiency: By streamlining processes and identifying areas for improvement, flowcharts can lead to increased efficiency and productivity.
• Reduced costs: Optimizing processes can help reduce waste, lower costs, and improve resource utilization.
• Improved quality: Flowcharts can help identify and eliminate errors, leading to higher-quality outputs.

What are the types of flowcharts?

There are several types of flowcharts, each designed to visualize different aspects of a process or system:

1. Flow process chart

The flow process chart was introduced by engineers Frank and Lillian Gilbreth in the 1920s. It was later adopted by ASME in the 1940s. Flow process charts are used in various industries, including computer programming and quality control initiatives in manufacturing.

2. Program flowchart

A program flowchart represents the sequence of steps and decisions in a computer program or algorithm. It is a tool to help programmers design, document, and debug software applications, instructing the computer on what tasks to do and in which order.

3. System flowchart

A system flowchart describes the architecture and components of a system, including hardware, software, and their interactions. It is useful in designing, documenting, and troubleshooting complex systems. System flowcharts depict the interconnections and interactions between different parts of a system, such as orders moving from customers to the delivery team in a pizza delivery business.

4. Swimlane flowchart

A swimlane flowchart is designed to illustrate the progression of a process as it traverses different departments, roles, or areas of responsibility. Like lanes in a swimming pool, these flowcharts use distinct horizontal or vertical bands to represent the various actors involved in the process. This visual approach provides clarity by showing who is responsible for each step and how the work transitions between different parties.

5. Data flowchart (DFD)

A data flow diagram (DFD) outlines the movement and transformation of data within a system. It visually maps out the journey of data, starting from its entry points (inputs) through various processing stages, storage locations, and ultimately to its exit points (outputs).

6. Workflow diagram

A workflow diagram illustrates the sequential progression of work items and associated documentation as they navigate through various stages, departments, or individuals. Workflow diagrams are useful for outlining office procedures, delineating approval workflows where multiple parties need to sign off on a document, or meticulously mapping out the intricacies of project management processes.

7. Event-driven process chain diagram (EPC)

An EPC diagram outlines how specific events trigger or initiate functions, which in turn lead to subsequent events or outcomes. EPCs are widely used in various domains, primarily in business process modeling, where they facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the sequence and logic of activities within a process.

8. Specification & description language (SSDL) diagram

The SDL diagram is a specialized modeling tool employed in the fields of telecommunications and software engineering to capture the intricacies of complex systems and their dynamic behavior. This formal language provides a structured approach to defining system components, their interactions, and the sequences of events that govern their operation.

Other flowchart types:

• Business process modeling notation (BPMN): A standardized notation for modeling business processes.
• Value stream map (VSM): A lean manufacturing tool for analyzing and improving the flow of materials and information in a production process.
• Cross-functional flowchart: Similar to a swimlane flowchart but with a focus on interactions between different functional areas.
• Flowchart template: Pre-designed diagrams that aid in website building, process visualization, and decision mapping. These templates are time-saving, standardized, and helpful for understanding elements and relationships between different phases of a project.