The Different Types of Flowcharts and When to Use Them

Flowcharts are an essential tool for visualizing processes and workflows. They help us understand complex systems and identify areas for improvement. But did you know that there are different types of flowcharts? Each type has its own unique purpose and can be used in different situations. In this article, we'll explore the different types of flowcharts and when to use them.

What is a Flowchart?

Before we dive into the different types of flowcharts, let's first define what a flowchart is. A flowchart is a visual representation of a process or workflow. It uses symbols and arrows to show the flow of information or materials through a system. Flowcharts are used in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and software development.

The Different Types of Flowcharts

1. Process Flowchart

The process flowchart is the most common type of flowchart. It is used to document a process from start to finish. The symbols used in a process flowchart include:

• Start and End symbols: These symbols indicate the beginning and end of the process.
• Process symbols: These symbols represent the steps in the process.
• Decision symbols: These symbols are used to show decision points in the process.
• Connector symbols: These symbols are used to connect different parts of the process.

Process flowcharts are useful for identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies in a process. They can also be used to train new employees on a process.

2. Swimlane Flowchart

The swimlane flowchart is a type of process flowchart that shows the different departments or individuals involved in a process. Each department or individual is represented by a "swimlane" on the flowchart. The symbols used in a swimlane flowchart are the same as those used in a process flowchart.

Swimlane flowcharts are useful for identifying areas of responsibility and accountability in a process. They can also be used to improve communication between departments or individuals.

3. Workflow Diagram

The workflow diagram is a type of flowchart that shows the steps in a workflow. Unlike a process flowchart, a workflow diagram does not show the entire process from start to finish. Instead, it focuses on a specific part of the process.

The symbols used in a workflow diagram are similar to those used in a process flowchart. However, the symbols may be customized to fit the specific workflow being documented.

Workflow diagrams are useful for identifying areas of improvement in a specific part of a process. They can also be used to train employees on a specific task.

4. Data Flow Diagram

The data flow diagram is a type of flowchart that shows how data flows through a system. It is used to document the inputs, processes, and outputs of a system. The symbols used in a data flow diagram include:

• External entities: These symbols represent sources or destinations of data outside the system.
• Processes: These symbols represent the steps in the system that transform data.
• Data stores: These symbols represent where data is stored within the system.
• Data flows: These symbols represent the movement of data between the external entities, processes, and data stores.

Data flow diagrams are useful for identifying areas of data redundancy and inefficiency in a system. They can also be used to design new systems or improve existing ones.

5. Value Stream Map

The value stream map is a type of flowchart that shows the flow of materials and information through a system. It is used to identify areas of waste and inefficiency in a system. The symbols used in a value stream map include:

• Customer: This symbol represents the customer or end user of the system.
• Supplier: This symbol represents the supplier of materials or information to the system.
• Process: This symbol represents the steps in the system that transform materials or information.
• Inventory: This symbol represents the inventory of materials or information within the system.
• Transportation: This symbol represents the movement of materials or information between processes.
• Wait time: This symbol represents the time spent waiting for materials or information.
• Overproduction: This symbol represents the production of more materials or information than is needed.
• Defects: This symbol represents defects or errors in the system.

Value stream maps are useful for identifying areas of waste and inefficiency in a system. They can also be used to design new systems or improve existing ones.

When to Use Each Type of Flowchart

Now that we've explored the different types of flowcharts, let's discuss when to use each type. The type of flowchart you use will depend on the specific situation you are trying to document or improve.

• Use a process flowchart to document a process from start to finish.
• Use a swimlane flowchart to show the different departments or individuals involved in a process.
• Use a workflow diagram to focus on a specific part of a process.
• Use a data flow diagram to document how data flows through a system.
• Use a value stream map to identify areas of waste and inefficiency in a system.

Conclusion

Flowcharts are an essential tool for visualizing processes and workflows. By using the right type of flowchart for the situation, you can identify areas of improvement and increase efficiency in your system. Whether you're in manufacturing, healthcare, or software development, flowcharts can help you streamline your processes and improve your bottom line.

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