Flow chart
A flowchart is a picture of the separate steps of a process in sequential order. This is a generic tool that can be adapted for a wide variety of purposes. Flowchart are being used:
- 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.
Elements that may be included are:
- 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.
The process described can be anything: From a manufacturing process, an administrative or service process, to a project plan.