Adapted from: Process Analysis Tools
Institute for Healthcare Improvement Boston, Massachusetts, USA 1
Flowchart
Flowcharts allow you to draw a picture of the way a process actually works so that you can
understand the existing process and develop ideas about how to improve it. A high-level
flowchart, showing six to 12 steps, gives a panoramic view of a process. These flowcharts
show clearly the major blocks of activity, or the major system components, in a process. High-
level flowcharts are especially useful in the early phases of a project. A detailed flowchart is a
close-up view of the process, typically showing dozens of steps. These flowcharts make it easy
to identify rework loops and complexity in a process. Detailed flowcharts are useful after teams
have pinpointed issues or when they are making changes in the process.
Using a flowchart has a variety of benefits:
It helps to clarify complex processes.
It identifies steps that do not add value to the internal or external customer, including:
delays; needless storage and transportation; unnecessary work, duplication, and added
expense; breakdowns in communication.
It helps team members gain a shared understanding of the process and use this
knowledge to collect data, identify problems, focus discussions, and identify resources.
It serves as a basis for designing new processes.
This tool contains:
Directions for Creating a Flowchart
Standard and Detailed Flowchart Symbols
High-Level Flowchart Example
Detailed Flowchart Example
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