3.14 Flowchart

Why Flowchart?

Study the sequence of how a product is used
Analyze the “point of contact” in a dynamic way
Identify potential problems associated with the usage
Create design components for each step
Enhance the user experience by improving the sequence
Important analysis especially for designing product control and information systems

A flowchart is a graphical or symbolic representation of a process.

Each step in the process is represented by a different symbol and contains a short description of the process step. The flowchart symbols are linked together with arrows showing the process flow direction.

A flowchart shows a process – the operation of an object or system.

The flowchart works on an input and output diagram with the throughput as the actual process.

Throughput: the amount of material, data, etc., that enters and goes through something (such as a machine or system). The throughput is concerned with decisions – yes or no.

There are several different types of symbols used in flowcharts.

In our design process, we will use seven symbols and two types of arrows.

Flowchart Example:

Process: show a process or action step. This is the most common symbol in both process flowcharts and business process maps.

Terminator: shows the start and stop points in a process. When used as a star symbol, terminators depict a trigger action that sets the process flow into motion.

Delay: indicates a delay or an interruption in the process flow. Typically, a Delay flowchart shape represents additional time in the process that is not part of normal flow.

Decision: indicates a question or branch in the process flow. Typically, a Decision flowchart shape is used when there are two options (Yes/No, Go/No-Go, etc.)