A flowchart is a visual representation of a process or workflow. It’s a diagrammatic illustration that showcases a solution model to a given problem. As a business analyst, it’s an essential tool that can be used to communicate processes effectively..

Definition

Flowcharts are used to design, analyze, document, or manage a process or program in various fields. They use different symbols and shapes to represent different types of actions or steps in a process. Arrows and lines are used to illustrate the sequence and direction of these steps.

Purpose of Flowchart

The primary aim of a flowchart is to break down complex processes into understandable sequences. Here are some purposes:

• To visualize a process, helping users understand the process, and identify areas of improvement.
• To document a process, allowing for easier analysis and problem-solving.
• To help in decision making by providing a detailed view of the process.
• To communicate a process across an organization, ensuring everyone understands the process.

Components of Flowchart

A flowchart comprises several key components:

Start/End Symbols

These are usually represented as circles, ovals or rounded rectangles. They indicate where a process starts or ends.

Processing Steps

Each step in a process is represented by a rectangle. These steps could be anything from ‘Get approval’ to ‘Submit report’, based on whatever process the flowchart is representing.

Decision Points

These are typically represented by diamonds. They indicate a point where a decision needs to be made, usually a ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ question, which then directs the flow of the process.

Types of Flowcharts

There are several types of flowcharts:

Process Flowchart

This is the simplest form of a flowchart, showing the process from start to finish. It’s often used in process engineering and chemical industry.

Workflow Diagram

This is a flowchart that displays the movement of tasks, documents, or information from one department to another. It’s used in various business fields such as HR, marketing, and sales.

Data Flowchart

This type of flowchart visualizes how data flows through a system. It’s commonly used in the IT industry to understand how data is processed in a system.

Flowchart Examples

Let’s take a look at some examples of flowcharts.

1. Hiring process flowchart: This flowchart could start with ‘Receive CV’ and end with ‘Hire Applicant’. In between, steps could include ‘Screen CV’, ‘Interview Candidate’, and ‘Check References’, with decision points like ‘Is CV suitable?’ and ‘Was interview successful?’.
2. Customer service flowchart: This flowchart might start with ‘Receive Customer Query’ and end with ‘Resolve Query’. Steps in between could include ‘Identify Problem’, ‘Propose Solution’, and ‘Implement Solution’, with decision points like ‘Is problem identified?’ and ‘Is customer satisfied?’.

In conclusion, flowcharts play a crucial role in simplifying complex processes, ensuring everyone involved understands the process, and helping to identify potential areas of improvement. Whether you’re part of a large corporation or a small team, flowcharts are a great tool to have in your toolbox.