Flowcharts

Definition and meaning of Flowcharts

Flowcharts are a diagrammatic representation of the inputs, outputs and steps that make up a business process. stakeholdermap.com
Flowcharts use a widely recognised set of symbols and conventions to document a process, this makes them easy to read and a useful early step in BPM.
The Top 10 Flow Chart symbols you need to know
For example flowcharts are often used to provide a snapshot of current processes which can then be analysed for process improvement.
[Business Process] Maps and flowcharts help make work visible. Increased visibility improves communication and understanding, and provides a common frame of reference for those involved with the work process. Damelio, R. 1996, pg. 1

Flowchart examples from real world projects

These Flowcharts were created for real world process mapping projects.

Business Readiness Flowchart

Business Readiness Flowchart - thumbnailThis example flowchart shows a business readiness process for strategic business plan delivery. This is an example of a cross functional flowchart, it is not intended as a business readiness template or a repeatable flow. Download Visio file. This is a Microsoft Visio file you will need Visio or a Visio viewer to see this Flowchart. Download a PDF version instead - Business Readiness Flowchart in PDF

Distribution Process Flowchart

Flowchart for a Distribution process - thumbnailThis flowchart documents a distribution process. The distribution was of a series of short books at the end of a research project. Although this was mapped for a specific project it is a good example of a cross functional flowchart which includes steps across two project phases. Download Visio file. This is a MS Visio file you will need MS Visio or a Visio viewer to see this Flowchart. Download a PDF version instead - Distribution Process flowchart in PDF


Service Request - Call Flowchart

Example Flowchart for a Service Request process This flowchart documents a call handling process for a service request. The service request could be for anything and starts with a customer contacting a call-centre agent, with activities and key decision points shown. Download Visio file. This is a Microsoft Visio file you will need MS Visio or a Visio viewer to see this flowchart. Download a PDF version instead - Service Request Flowchart in PDF.

Match Invoice Process

Flowchart example - invoicing process This flowchart documents an invoicing process, including attaching purchase orders and passing for authorisation. It is a good example of an incomplete flowchart as the logic/steps for rejecting an invoice are not shown. Download Visio file - this is a Microsoft Visio file you will need MS Visio or a Visio viewer to see this flowchart. Download a PDF version instead - Invoice Process Flowchart in PDF.

Raise Purchase Order Process

flowchart example raising a purchase order Another example of a cross functional flowchart. This is for raising purchase orders for project related costs. It includes key checks of the supplier list and PO system and includes authorisation by the project manager. Download Visio file - this is a MS Visio file you will need MS Visio or a Visio viewer to see this flowchart. Download a PDF version instead - Flowchart for raising a Purchase Order in PDF.

Scrutiny Process

Flowchart for a Scrutiny Process An example of a flowchart documenting a complex scrutiny /compliance process combined with a timeline. The process crosses multiple functions, using 'columns' to show the tasks between functions and 'rows' to show the actvities against a timeline. Some activities are given dates e.g. for review meetings. Annotations are also used to provide more detail on key tasks.

Download Visio file. This is a Microsoft Visio file you will need MS Visio or a Visio viewer to see this flowchart. Download a PDF version instead - Finding a Job Work Breakdown Structure in PDF

Scrutiny Process second example

flowchart example for scrutiny of a strategic business plan Another example of a compliance / scrutiny process. This example documents the scrutiny process is for a strategic business plan.

Download Visio file. This is a Microsoft Visio file you will need MS Visio or a Visio viewer to see this Flowchart. Download a PDF version instead - Strategic business plan scrutiny process in PDF

Taking the Cat to the Vet - Flowchart

Flowchart for taking the cat to the vet A fun example to demonstrate a cross functional flowchart.

Download Visio file. This is a Microsoft Visio file you will need MS Visio or a Visio viewer. Download a PDF version instead - Software upgrade Work Breakdown Structure in PDF.