Whether simple or complex every process is a series of some number of steps
Planning a new strategy? Want to improve customer satisfaction? Want to know why some of your projects are failing? Show
Process mapping is the first step to find out how and why to these questions above. In this process mapping guide we will show you;
What is a Process Map?A process map visually shows the steps of a work activity and the people who are involved in carrying out each step. When mapping a process you simply draw a box for each step and connect them with arrows to show a flow. You can use an online tool to easily create a Process Map. A basic process map would look like this; Process Map SymbolsEach step in a process is represented by a shape in a process map. These shapes are also called flowchart shapes. There are nearly 30 standard shapes that you can use in process mapping. However, we think for most people, using a handful of the most common shapes will be easier to understand. Shape Name Use
and the direction of flow
read by people The full set of process map/flowchart shapes are at the bottom of this guide. Types of Process MapsFollowing is a list of different types of process maps along with a brief description and when you can use each. Choose the type of process map that is most suitable for your goal. Basic FlowchartA basic flowchart is a simple map visualizing the steps of a process including its inputs and outputs. When to use:
How to draw: Here’s the ultimate flowchart guide you need to learn how to draw them. High-level Process MapThis is also known as a value chain map or a top-down map. It shows the core activities of a process. It doesn’t go into much detail about decision points, rework loop, roles involved etc. When to use:
How to draw:
Detailed Process MapA flowchart that shows a drill-down version of a process. This means all the details of the sub-processes are contained in this type of map. When to use:
How to draw:
Cross-Functional FlowchartA flowchart that shows the relationships between process steps and the functional units (teams/ departments) responsible for them with swim lanes. It’s also known as a deployment flowchart. When to use:
How to draw:
SIPOCSIPOC shows the key elements of a process such as Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputs, and Customers. When to use:
How to draw:
Value Stream MapValue stream maps visualize the flow of material and information that is needed to bring your product to the customer. When to use:
How to draw: Here’s a comprehensive value stream mapping guide to master how to draw them. Note that Value stream maps have a different set of shapes, but the principles of process mapping remain the same. How to Create a Process Map| Process Mapping StepsNow that you know what process mapping symbols are and what types of process maps are out there, are you ready to create a process map? Here are the steps you need to follow, Step 1: Identify the Process You Need to MapDecide where you want to start. Is it with the process that is underperforming? Is it with the process that is important to your new strategy? Or is it with the process that directly makes an impact on customer satisfaction? And then give it a name. Step 2: Bring Together the Right TeamThe input of everyone involved in the process is necessary to make sure that you cover every aspect of the process when mapping it. The right team should include those who do and manage the process and provides the input. Step 3: Gather All the Necessary Information
Step 4: Organize the Steps in a Sequential OrderGet your team to arrange each step in a sequential order from the beginning to the end. Step 5: Draw the Baseline Process MapDraw a process map that shows the map as it is currently. Keep in mind the Step 5: Analyze the Map to Find Areas for ImprovementIdentify inefficiencies and bottlenecks within the processes. What are the steps that should be eliminated? Where can you make improvements? Step 6: Implement Improvements and Monitor ThemImplement the improvements on a smaller scale at first. If they work better, you can apply it on a larger scale. Monitor the new and improved process to see how it is functioning and whether it needs further optimization. Process Mapping Best Practices
More process mapping best practices? Benefits of Process mappingAs you are already reading about process mapping, we’d guess you know at least a few benefits of doing it. However read this section carefully as it will help you convince others!
Process Map TemplatesFollowing are a few process map templates you can edit online with the Creately editor. Template 1 Template 2 Template 3 Want more free editable process map templates? Process Mapping Symbols (Continued)In addition to the basic symbols we discussed earlier, process mapping makes use of the following symbols as well. Process/ Operations Symbols ShapeNameUseBranching and Control of Flow Symbols Shape NameUseInput and Output Symbols ShapeName UseFile and Information Storage Symbols ShapeNameUseData Processing Symbols ShapeNameUseWhat Are Your Thoughts on the Process Mapping Guide?Process maps are not only a vital part of process documentation but are also a popular business process improvement methodology. Follow the guide to create efficient business process maps and share with us any concern you may have, even if it is another process mapping technique that you personally use. In our next guide, we’ll be discussing diagrams that can be used to make HR management more efficient. Join over thousands of organizations that use Creately to brainstorm, plan, analyze, and execute their projects successfully. Get started herebusiness process mapping process map symbols process map templates process mapping process mapping guide process maps How many steps are in the SIPOC process?7 steps to map and understand business processes.
What are the steps of a process?A process consists four major elements:. Steps and decisions — the flowchart. ... . Variability of processing time and flow — the pattern of processing times.. Timing and interdependence — when the arrivals happen, when people work, etc.. Assignment of resources — how many and where are they assigned.. What does a SIPOC tell you?A SIPOC (suppliers, inputs, process, outputs, customers) diagram is a visual tool for documenting a business process from beginning to end prior to implementation.
What is the first step in creating a SIPOC diagram?To construct one, you can start with a table with 5 columns. Then, label each column with the letters SIPOC or the words Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputs, and Customers. Alternatively, you can download a template on the web. Once you have it let's move on to filling it out.
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