Process mapping provides a visual representation for every step in a process. In addition to outlining tasks, it also identifies task owners and provides details on the expected timelines for each task’s completion. The process map gives the team visualization of how a process works so they more easily identify and address any problems.
Process maps provide a simple, powerful tool. Creating one is often one of the first steps for teams delving into making a process more cost-effective.
Some organizations may refer to process maps as a flowchart, document map, value stream map, a process model or a workflow diagram. A business uses a process mapping as part of its business process management (BPM) efforts.
Types of Process Mapping
While there are differences among the various types of process map, each typically starts at a high level that provides an overview. Teams add details as a project progresses. The types of process maps include the following.
Basic flowcharts: Visual maps that provide the basic process details such as inputs and outputs.
Deployment maps: A cross-functional flowchart that displays relationships and flow of work between different teams, making it easier to identify bottlenecks.
Detailed process maps: This is a version of the basic process map with more details on processes and subprocesses.
High-level process maps: A “big picture” process map that shows the entire value-chain that goes into a process: suppliers, input, process, output, and customer.
Value stream map: A key tool in Lean Six Sigma that focuses on each step required to develop a product or service, with each step judged by whether it adds value to the customer.
Why Organizations Need Process Maps
Process mapping benefits an organization in many ways, all of which help achieve continuous process improvement.
- Visualization: Lean and Six Sigma both focus on visualization through graphs, charts, tables and images to help people better grasp what goes into each step of a process.
- Identifying problems: Through visualization, process maps make it easier to locate bottlenecks and problems in a process.
- Faster decisions: Teams and business leaders can quickly see problems and decide on ways to address them.
- Tracking progress: A process map allows teams to track the progress of changes, see how they impact a process and make modifications when required.
- An accurate picture: Organizations avoid the mistake of creating more issues when trying to fix a problem by understanding exactly how a process works and the flaws in the system before making any adjustments.
