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FLOWCHART

A flow chart is a pictorial representation showing all of the steps of a process.
 

A Flowchart is used for:

  1. defining and analyzing processes (example: What is the registration process for entering freshmen students?)
  2. building a step-by-step picture of the process for analysis, discussion, or communication purposes (example: Is it possible to shorten the length of time it takes for a student to complete the program?)
  3. defining, standardizing, or finding areas for improvement in a process

Steps for creating a flowchart are:

  1. Familiarize the participants with the flowchart symbols
  2. Brainstorm major process tasks. Ask questions such as "What really happens next in the process?", "Does a decision need to be made before the next step?", or What approvals are required before moving on to the next task?"
  3. Draw the process flowchart using the symbols on a flip chart or overhead transparency. Every process will have a start and an end (shown by elongated circles). All processes will have tasks and most will have decision points (shown by a diamond).
  4. Analyze the flowchart for such items as:
    Time-per-event (reducing cycle time)
    Process repeats (preventing rework)
    Duplication of effort (identifying and eliminating duplicated tasks)
    Unnecessary tasks (eliminating tasks that are in the process for no apparent reason)
    Value-added versus non-value-added tasks

 

 
*Background: Broadcast News,  Advertising, Former business owner, Freelance writer.
* Native Whitehouse, NJ, BS in Behavioral Science Barry University 1992
* Moved to Vero Beach from California (via Ft Myers) in 1972 w/ 9 Mos. old David, Jr. 
* Hobbies: Reading, Jazz & Rock, Fantasy Football, Hiking, Computers
 

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 This page was last updated on 04/14/06.

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