process flowchart symbols

Introduction

When it comes to analyzing and improving business processes, one of the most effective tools is a process flowchart. It helps visualize the steps involved in a process, identify bottlenecks, and find ways to optimize it. However, to create a flowchart, you need to know the different symbols and their meanings. In this article, we’ll go over the most common process flowchart symbols and what they stand for.

Basic Flowchart Symbols

The basic flowchart symbols represent the different stages in a process. Here are the most common ones:

  • Start/End: This symbol represents the beginning or end of a process. It’s usually an oval shape with the word “Start” or “End” inside.
  • Process: This symbol represents a step or action in the process. It’s usually a rectangular shape with a description of the action inside.
  • Decision: This symbol represents a decision point in the process. It’s usually a diamond shape with a yes/no question inside.
  • Connector: This symbol represents a point where the process splits or merges. It’s usually a circle shape with a letter or number inside.

Intermediate Flowchart Symbols

Intermediate flowchart symbols are used to add more detail to the process. Here are some examples:

  • Delay: This symbol represents a delay or waiting time in the process. It’s usually a rectangle shape with the word “Delay” inside.
  • Input/Output: This symbol represents input or output data in the process. It’s usually a parallelogram shape with a description of the data inside.
  • Predefined Process: This symbol represents a process that has already been defined elsewhere. It’s usually a rectangular shape with a reference number or name inside.
  • Loop: This symbol represents a loop or repetition in the process. It’s usually a rectangle shape with a description of the loop inside and an arrow pointing back to an earlier step.

Advanced Flowchart Symbols

Advanced flowchart symbols are used to add even more detail to the process. Here are some examples:

  • Off-page Connector: This symbol represents a point where the process continues on another page. It’s usually a circle shape with a letter or number inside and an arrow pointing off the page.
  • Merge: This symbol represents the merging of two or more processes. It’s usually a diamond shape with arrows pointing to it from two or more directions.
  • Terminator: This symbol represents the termination of a process due to an error or exception. It’s usually a rectangular shape with the word “Error” or “Exception” inside.
  • Manual Input: This symbol represents manual input by a person in the process. It’s usually a trapezoid shape with a description of the input inside.

Conclusion

Process flowcharts are a powerful tool for analyzing and improving business processes. By using the right symbols, you can create a clear and comprehensive visualization of the process and identify areas for improvement. Understanding the different process flowchart symbols is essential for creating effective flowcharts. By mastering these symbols, you can create flowcharts that are easy to understand, communicate, and act upon.