oilfield problem solving flowchart

Visualization for innovation: How to use flowcharts for smarter problem solving

In December 1921, industrial psychologists Lillian Gilbreth and Frank Bunker Gilbreth presented a new model for problem solving to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers in New York City. 

Their “process chart” — known today as a flowchart — is a method of visualizing a process in order to improve it. More than one hundred years later, companies from manufacturing to tech startups use flowcharts to pinpoint bottlenecks, improve efficiency, and enhance decision-making for their biggest challenges. 

How flowcharts simplify problem solving

Visualizing a problem lets us see it in its entirety and process how different components interact. That’s because, according to the Gestalt Principles , with visual representation, our minds can quickly perceive individual elements as a whole and understand a problem better. 

“Every detail of a process is more or less affected by every other detail,” the Gilbreths theorized . “Therefore, the entire process must be presented in such [a] form that it can be visualized all at once before any changes are made in any of its subdivisions.” 

Once you see how individual elements work together to create a process, you can take steps to modify elements to improve the whole. 

• What is a problem-solving flowchart?

A problem-solving flowchart is a flowchart that helps process improvement, troubleshooting, or decision-making. Flowcharts use shapes, symbols, and connecting arrows to map out a problem or flow. This technique illustrates how many steps are in a process, entry and endpoints, the flow of information and materials, and any branches or decision points. 

For example, this problem-solving flowchart template shows how you can use a flowchart to troubleshoot a technical problem. The flow guides users through basic questions and actions to a likely solution. 

Use this template

• When to use a flowchart for problem solving

Flowcharts can be useful in several instances:

• When you’re aware of a problem, but aren’t sure of the root cause or the best way to solve it. 
• When you want to improve a product or service or specific outcomes, like delivery time. 
• When you’re entering a new market and want to create solutions that are a market fit for real customer problems. 
• The stages of problem solving

To understand how to use flowcharts for problem solving, we’ll use the double diamond design-thinking process . This approach divides problem solving into four stages: discover, define, develop, and deliver. Most people start problem solving in the middle of the diamonds, believing that they know the problem and can start on solutions right away. Instead, you should start even earlier. 

https://www.designcouncil.org.uk/our-resources/the-double-diamond

1. Discover

Starting with research helps people understand, rather than simply assume, the problem. Design Council co-founder Jonathan Ball advises , “Go back and ask, ‘Have I been asked to solve the right problem?’”

Problem-solving requests normally come to product or engineering teams from leadership or customers. Statements like “This isn’t selling well” or “This process takes too long” describe pain points, but they’re too vague to form functional solutions. 

There are multiple ways to explore the root of a problem:

• Qualitative user research like user interviews
• Quantitative user research like user testing and heatmap tracking
• Workshops, like Upwork’s problem-solving workshop with Miro that led participants through brainstorming, discussing, and voting on top problems to solve
• Flowcharts to illustrate challenges in the “as-is” process . 

As-is process mapping

Flowcharts can help solve problems by first mapping out the problematic process. If a process map doesn’t exist, isn’t updated, or hasn’t been well communicated, this is the best starting point. 

Ask all teams involved to participate in mapping out the current process. During the process, you may identify bottlenecks or areas of misunderstanding. 

Next, refine your discovery into a single statement. A problem statement should explain who is affected, their end goal, the challenge, and the impact of the challenge. Here’s an example of a problem statement:

“Users of [software name] encounter frustration when they try to customize a monthly sales report. They are not able to customize the data within the platform reporting, and instead are abandoning the process and exporting raw data to compile outside of the platform. This takes longer, makes it harder for them to reach business goals, and lowers satisfaction with the software.”

You can get to the heart of a problem by asking why solving the problem is important and how the problem originated. Miro’s problem statement template is useful for this exercise. 

Once you’ve defined the problem, you’re ready to move to the second diamond — the solution space. Flowcharts are ideal for mapping out potential solutions for testing. Just like an as-is process map, a proposed or to-be process map illustrates how a process should work, showing entry points, decision points, actions, parties, and endpoints.

In the development stage, use testing to reject ideas that don’t work and refine your solution. “The earlier and more often you can prototype and test, the better the outcome will be,” shares Ball. 

It’s important to note that changing a process isn’t always the solution to your problems. Simply visualizing it and addressing misplaced expectations can also be a solution. 

Once you ship a solution, your work isn’t done. Communicate the update to users, collect feedback, track outcomes, and commit to continuous improvement . 

• How to make a visual problem-solving flowchart

Interested in trying your hand at visual problem solving? The specific techniques for visual problem solving are as numerous as there are problems, but below we’ll outline three to get you started. All of them use Miro as their foundation, which allows for collaboration in real time, so you can create effective visuals to guide your process. 

1. Cyclical problem-solving process

This structured problem-solving process by Senior UX Designer Marcos Rezende walks teams through eight steps for tackling organizational challenges. It includes identifying the problem, gathering and analyzing data, generating solutions, and implementing them. Because this process is cyclical, it’s valuable for continuous improvement.  

2. Cross-functional flowchart

If you’re attempting to solve internal workflow problems, a cross-functional flowchart can help you pinpoint challenges across silos. This template from Hiro Studio walks teams through outlining process steps and their relationships, identifying unnecessary complexity or duplication, and uncovering opportunities for improvement. 

Consultant John White explains why this technique is effective: “When we document a process flow, we get everyone on the same page by removing assumptions of what we think is happening, and we document what is actually happening.”

Embed intro video: https://miro.com/miroverse/cross-functional-flowchart/

3. Problem tree 

Instead of a traditional flowchart, this technique visualizes a problem as a tree. This visualization approach is designed to give a holistic view of a problem (the tree trunk) with its impacts (branches) and root causes (roots). 

• Frameworks for decision-making

Beyond flowcharts, visualization can help leaders make better decisions by framing decision criteria in visual form. Here are a few ways you can illustrate your thought process in visual form for more effective decisions. 

1. Risk matrix template

This risk matrix template helps leaders visualize the likelihood of adverse events happening by placing them on a matrix from rare to very likely and trivial to extreme.

2. Project scope template

How often do you need to argue that a request is “out of scope”? This simple framework helps you define a project scope at the beginning, so you have a touchstone to return to as a project evolves. This helps to manage goals, increase clarity, and keep projects within timeline and budget. 

2. Priority matrix template

When you have competing priorities, deciding how to invest your time and budget is difficult. To determine the best outcomes, use this priority matrix template to map out initiatives by urgency and importance. This brings agility to your team and keeps your focus on what matters most. 

You can find more decision-making visualization templates here . 

• From visualization to optimization: How visual problem solving leads to innovation

Over a century after its birth, the flowchart remains a valuable tool to help companies approach a problem differently, using visual cues to understand all the moving parts. 

With flowcharts and other visual tools, you can:

• Explore and define the right problem to solve
• Map out current processes to pinpoint the root cause of problems
• Propose and test new workflows and solutions
• Visualize a problem at a high level and work through frameworks for better decisions

Visualizing problems helps our brains “see” problems and solutions where we might have otherwise missed a connection. Using problem-solving flowcharts as a tool, you’ll set your teams up for better communication and innovation, too.

Ready to create flowcharts with just a few easy clicks?

Keep reading, unlocking clarity: mastering flow diagrams for complex process improvement.

Diagram design 101: Tips for effective visual diagrams to supercharge innovation

Achieve continuous improvement with as-is and to-be process mapping

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Oilfield Problem Solving Flowchart: Oil Gas Worker Notebook Paperback – December 8, 2021

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Problem-Solving Flowchart: A Visual Method to Find Perfect Solutions

Lucid Content

Reading time: about 7 min

“People ask me questions Lost in confusion Well, I tell them there's no problem Only solutions” —John Lennon, “Watching the Wheels”

Despite John Lennon’s lyrics, nobody is free from problems, and that’s especially true in business. Chances are that you encounter some kind of problem at work nearly every day, and maybe you’ve had to “put out a fire” before lunchtime once or twice in your career.

But perhaps what Lennon’s saying is that, no matter what comes our way, we can find solutions. How do you approach problems? Do you have a process in place to ensure that you and your co-workers come to the right solution?

In this article, we will give you some tips on how to find solutions visually through a problem-solving flowchart and other methods.

What is visual problem-solving?

If you are a literal thinker, you may think that visual problem-solving is something that your ophthalmologist does when your vision is blurry. For the rest of us, visual problem-solving involves executing the following steps in a visual way:

• Define the problem.
• Brainstorm solutions.
• Pick a solution.
• Implement solutions.
• Review the results.

How to make your problem-solving process more visual

Words pack a lot of power and are very important to how we communicate on a daily basis. Using words alone, you can brainstorm, organize data, identify problems, and come up with possible solutions. The way you write your ideas may make sense to you, but it may not be as easy for other team members to follow.

When you use flowcharts, diagrams, mind maps, and other visuals, the information is easier to digest. Your eyes dart around the page quickly gathering information, more fully engaging your brain to find patterns and make sense of the data.

Identify the problem with mind maps

So you know there is a problem that needs to be solved. Do you know what that problem is? Is there only one problem? Is the problem sum total of a bunch of smaller problems?

You need to ask these kinds of questions to be sure that you are working on the root of the issue. You don’t want to spend too much time and energy solving the wrong problem.

To help you identify the problem, use a mind map. Mind maps can help you visually brainstorm and collect ideas without a strict organization or structure. A mind map more closely aligns with the way a lot of our brains work—participants can bounce from one thought to the next defining the relationships as they go.

Mind mapping to solve a problem includes, but is not limited to, these relatively easy steps:

• In the center of the page, add your main idea or concept (in this case, the problem).
• Branch out from the center with possible root causes of the issue. Connect each cause to the central idea.
• Branch out from each of the subtopics with examples or additional details about the possible cause. As you add more information, make sure you are keeping the most important ideas closer to the main idea in the center.
• Use Collaborative AI to generate or expand on your ideas, so your mind map is as complete as possible.

Alternatively, you could use mind maps to brainstorm solutions once you discover the root cause. Try our free mind map template  or add the mind map shape library to quickly start your own mind map.

Create a problem-solving flowchart

A mind map is generally a good tool for non-linear thinkers. However, if you are a linear thinker—a person who thinks in terms of step-by-step progression making a flowchart may work better for your problem-solving strategy. A flowchart is a graphical representation of a workflow or process with various shapes connected by arrows representing each step.

Whether you are trying to solve a simple or complex problem, the steps you take to solve that problem with a flowchart are easy and straightforward. Using boxes and other shapes to represent steps, you connect the shapes with arrows that will take you down different paths until you find the logical solution at the end.

Flowcharts or decision trees are best used to solve problems or answer questions that are likely to come up multiple times. For example, Yoder Lumber , a family-owned hardwood manufacturer, built decision trees in Lucidchart to demonstrate what employees should do in the case of an injury.

To start your problem-solving flowchart, follow these steps:

• Draw a starting shape to state your problem.
• Draw a decision shape where you can ask questions that will give you yes-or-no answers.
• Based on the yes-or-no answers, draw arrows connecting the possible paths you can take to work through the steps and individual processes.
• Continue following paths and asking questions until you reach a logical solution to the stated problem.
• Try the solution. If it works, you’re done. If it doesn’t work, review the flowchart to analyze what may have gone wrong and rework the flowchart until you find the solution that works.

If your problem involves a process or workflow , you can also use flowcharts to visualize the current state of your process to find the bottleneck or problem that’s costing your company time and money.

Lucidchart has a large library of flowchart templates to help you analyze, design, and document problem-solving processes or any other type of procedure you can think of.

Draw a cause-and-effect diagram

A cause-and-effect diagram is used to analyze the relationship between an event or problem and the reason it happened. There is not always just one underlying cause of a problem, so this visual method can help you think through different potential causes and pinpoint the actual cause of a stated problem.

Cause-and-effect diagrams, created by Kaoru Ishikawa, are also known as Ishikawa diagrams, fishbone diagrams , or herringbone diagrams (because they resemble a fishbone when completed). By organizing causes and effects into smaller categories, these diagrams can be used to examine why things went wrong or might go wrong.

To perform a cause-and-effect analysis, follow these steps.

1. Start with a problem statement.

The problem statement is usually placed in a box or another shape at the far right of your page. Draw a horizontal line, called a “spine” or “backbone,” along the center of the page pointing to your problem statement.

2. Add the categories that represent possible causes.

For example, the category “Materials” may contain causes such as “poor quality,” “too expensive,” and “low inventory.” Draw angled lines (or “bones”) that branch out from the spine to these categories.

3. Add causes to each category.

Draw as many branches as you need to brainstorm the causes that belong in each category.

Like all visuals and diagrams, a cause-and-effect diagram can be as simple or as complex as you need it to be to help you analyze operations and other factors to identify causes related to undesired effects.

Collaborate with Lucidchart

You may have superior problem-solving skills, but that does not mean that you have to solve problems alone. The visual strategies above can help you engage the rest of your team. The more involved the team is in the creation of your visual problem-solving narrative, the more willing they will be to take ownership of the process and the more invested they will be in its outcome.

In Lucidchart, you can simply share the documents with the team members you want to be involved in the problem-solving process. It doesn’t matter where these people are located because Lucidchart documents can be accessed at any time from anywhere in the world.

Whatever method you decide to use to solve problems, work with Lucidchart to create the documents you need. Sign up for a free account today and start diagramming in minutes.

About Lucidchart

Lucidchart, a cloud-based intelligent diagramming application, is a core component of Lucid Software's Visual Collaboration Suite. This intuitive, cloud-based solution empowers teams to collaborate in real-time to build flowcharts, mockups, UML diagrams, customer journey maps, and more. Lucidchart propels teams forward to build the future faster. Lucid is proud to serve top businesses around the world, including customers such as Google, GE, and NBC Universal, and 99% of the Fortune 500. Lucid partners with industry leaders, including Google, Atlassian, and Microsoft. Since its founding, Lucid has received numerous awards for its products, business, and workplace culture. For more information, visit lucidchart.com.

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Blog Business What is a Problem-Solving Flowchart & How to Make One

What is a Problem-Solving Flowchart & How to Make One

Written by: Danesh Ramuthi Aug 10, 2023

Problem-Solving Flowcharts, contrary to what many believe aren’t just aesthetic wonders — they’re almost like magical blueprints for troubleshooting those pesky problems that many of us face.

Flowcharts take business challenges and turn them into a navigable pathway. In this post, I will guide you on key aspects of problem-solving flowcharts such as what it is, the advantages of problem-solving flowcharts, how to create one and more.

Besides, you’ll also discover how to create problem-solving flowcharts with the help of Venngage’s Flowchart Maker.

And for those of you thinking, “I’m no designer, how can I create one?” worry not! I’ve got you covered. Just hop on Venggage’s Flowchart Templates and you’ll be charting your way to problem-solving glory in no time.

Click to jump ahead:

What are problem-solving flowcharts?

When to use problem-solving flowcharts, what are the advantages of flowcharts in problem-solving, what are the 7 steps of problem-solving flowcharts.

• 5 different types of problem-solving flowcharts

Best practices for designing effective problem-solving flowcharts

How to make a flowchart using venngage , problem-solving flowcharts faqs.

• Final Thoughts

Problem-Solving Flowcharts is a graphical representation used to break down problem or process into smaller, manageable parts, identify the root causes and outline a step-by-step solution. 

It helps in visually organizing information and showing the relationships between various parts of the problem.

This type of flowcharts consists of different symbols and arrows, each representing different components or steps in the problem-solving process. 

By following the flow of the chart, individuals or teams can methodically approach problem, analyze different aspects of it and come to a well-informed solution.

Problem-Solving Flowcharts is a versatile tool that can be used in various scenarios. Here’s when to consider utilizing one:

• Complex Problems: When faced with a multifaceted issue that involves multiple steps or variables, flowcharts can help break down the complexity into digestible parts.
• Team Collaboration: If you’re working with a team and need a common understanding of problem and its potential solutions then a flowchart provides a visual that everyone can refer to.
• Analyzing Processes: In a situation where you need to understand a particular process, whether it’s within a project or a part of regular operations then mapping it out in a flowchart can offer clarity.
• Decision Making: When various paths or decisions might be taken, a flowchart can outline the potential outcomes of each aiding in making an informed choice.
• Training and Onboarding: Flowcharts can be used in training materials to help new employees understand complex processes or procedures which makes the learning curve smoother.
• Identifying Root Causes: If you’re looking to identify the underlying causes of problem then a flowchart can facilitate a systematic approach to reaching the root of the issue.

Related: How to Use Fishbone Diagrams to Solve Complex Problems

Problem-solving flowcharts can offer several benefits to the users who are looking to solve a particular problem. Few advantages of flowcharts in problem solving are: 

Visual Clarity

When you’re dealing with multifaceted problems or processes, words alone can make the situation seem even more tangled. Flowcharts distill these complexities into easily understandable visual elements. 

By mapping out each phase or component of problem, flowcharts offer a bird’s eye view enabling individuals to grasp the bigger picture and the finer details simultaneously.

Sequential Representation

Flowcharts excel in laying out the sequence of events or actions. By indicating a clear starting point and illustrating each subsequent step, they guide users through a process or solution path methodically. 

This linear representation ensures that no step is overlooked and each is executed in the right order.  

Collaboration

Problem-solving often requires team effort and flowcharts are instrumental in fostering collaborative environments. 

When a team is discussing potential solutions or trying to understand problem’s intricacies, a flowchart serves as a collective reference point. 

It aids in synchronizing everyone’s understanding, minimizing miscommunications and promoting constructive discussions. 

Read more about: Flowcharts Symbols and Meaning

1. Define the Problem  

Before anything else, it’s essential to articulate the problem or task you want to solve clearly and accurately. By understanding exactly what needs to be addressed you can ensure that subsequent steps align with the core issue.

2. Identify the Inputs and Outputs  

Determine what inputs (such as data, information or resources) will be required to solve the problem and what the desired outputs or outcomes are. Identifying these factors will guide you in structuring the steps needed to reach the end goal and ensure that all necessary resources are at hand.

3. Identify the Main Steps  

Break down the problem-solving process into its main steps or subtasks. This involves pinpointing the essential actions or stages necessary to reach the solution. Create a roadmap that helps in understanding how to approach the problem methodically.

4. Use Decision Symbols  

In problem-solving, decisions often lead to different paths or outcomes. Using standard symbols to represent these decision points in the flowcharts allows for a clear understanding of these critical junctures. It helps visually present various scenarios and their consequences.

5. Add Descriptions and Details  

A well-designed flowcharts is concise but clear in its labeling. Using arrows and short, descriptive phrases to explain what happens at each step or decision point ensures that the flowcharts communicates the process without unnecessary complexity. 

6. Revise and Refine  

Creating a flowcharts is not always a one-and-done process. It may require revisions to improve its clarity, accuracy or comprehensiveness. Necessary refinement ensures that the flowcharts precisely reflects the problem-solving process and is free from errors or ambiguities.

7. Use Flowchart Tool  

While it’s possible to draw a flowcharts manually, using a flowcharts tool like Venngage’s Flowchart Maker and Venngage’s Flowchart Templates can make the process more efficient and flexible. These tools come with pre-designed templates and intuitive interfaces that make it easy to create, modify and share flowcharts. 

5 different types of problem-solving flowcharts 

Let’s have a look at 5 most common types of flowcharts that individuals and organizations often use. 

1. Process Flowchart s

A process flowcharts is a visual representation of the sequence of steps and decisions involved in executing a particular process or procedure. 

It serves as a blueprint that showcases how different stages or functions are interconnected in a systematic flow and it highlights the direction of the process from its beginning to its end.

Process flowcharts are instrumental in training and onboarding, sales process , process optimization, documentation, recruitment and in any scenario where clear communication of a process is crucial.

2. Flowcharts Infographic 

A flowcharts infographic is a great way to showcase the process or a series of steps using a combination of graphics, icons, symbols and concise text. It aims to communicate complex information in a clear and easy-to-understand manner, making it a popular tool for conveying information, data and instructions in a visually engaging way.

For example, you can use this flowchart to illustrate a health insurance process that visually explains the steps involved from finding a provider to paying for your healthcare provider. 

3. Circular Flowcharts

A circular flowcharts is used to illustrate the flow of information, goods, services or money within a closed system or process. It gets its name from its circular shape, which emphasizes the continuous and cyclical nature of the flow. 

Circular flowcharts are widely used in various fields such as economics, business, engineering and process management to help visualize and understand complex systems.

In a circular flowcharts , elements are represented using various shapes and connected with arrows to indicate the direction of flow. The circular arrangement indicates that the process is ongoing and repeats itself over time.

4. Swimlane flowcharts

Swimlane flowcharts , also known as cross-functional flowcharts are a specific type of flowchart that organizes the process flow into lanes or “swimlanes.” 

Each lane represents a different participant or functional area involved in the process and the flowchart shows how activities or information move between these participants. 

Swimlane flowcharts are particularly useful for illustrating complex processes that involve multiple stakeholders or departments.

In a swimlane flowcharts, the process is divided horizontally into lanes and each lane is labeled with the name of the department, person or role responsible for that part of the process. Vertically, the flowchart displays the sequence of steps or actions taken in the process.

5. Decision Flowchart s

Decision flowcharts, also known as decision trees or flow diagrams are graphical representations that illustrate the process of making decisions or solving problems. 

They are widely used in various fields such as computer science, business mapping , engineering and problem-solving scenarios. 

Decision flowcharts help break down complex decision-making processes into simple, sequential steps, making it easier to understand and follow.

A decision tree is a specialized flowchart used to visually represent the process of decision-making. 

Businesses and other individuals can employ a decision tree analysis as a tool to aid in evaluating different options and the possible consequences associated with each choice.

Decision trees Infographics can be used to create a more nuanced type of flowchart that is more informative and visually appealing by combining a decision flowchart and the flowchart infographic. 

Decision flowcharts are valuable tools for visualizing decision-making processes, analyzing complex problems and communicating them effectively to others.

Designing effective problem-solving flowcharts involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure clarity, accuracy and usability. Here are some best practices to create efficient and useful problem-solving flowcharts:

• Understand the problem first & clearly define it
• Keep it simple
• Use standard & recognizable symbols
• Ensure that the flowchart follows a logical and sequential order
• Clearly label each decision point, action and outcome
• Verify the flowchart’s accuracy by testing it
• Clearly state the decision criteria that lead to different branches
• Provide context when the flowchart is part of a larger process or system
• Review and revise the flowchart

Creating problem-solving flowchart on Venngage is incredibly simple. All you have to do is:

• Start by Signing Up and Creating an Account with Venngage
• Choose a flowchart template that best suits your needs from our library.
• Start editing your flowchart by choosing the desired shapes, labels and colors.
• You can also enhance your flowchart by incorporating icons, illustrations or backgrounds all of which are readily available in our library.
• Once done, you will have 2 options to choose from, either sharing it online for free or downloading your flowchart to your desktop by subscribing to the Premium or Business Plan. 

Is flowchart the representation of problem solutions?

Flowcharts are not the representation of problem solutions per se; rather, they are a visual representation of processes, decision-making steps and actions taken to arrive at a solution to problem.

What are the 3 basic structures of flowcharts?

3 Basic Structures of Flowcharts are:

• Sequence: Simplify Complexity
• Selection (Decision): Embrace Choices
• Repetition (Loop): Emphasize Iteration

What are the elements of a good flowchart?

A good flowchart should exhibit clarity and simplicity, using consistent symbols and labels to depict a logical sequence of steps. It should be readable, with appropriate white space to avoid clutter while eliminating ambiguity through well-defined decision criteria and paths.

Can flowcharts be used for both simple and complex problem-solving?

Yes, flowcharts can be used for both simple and complex problem-solving scenarios. Flowcharts are versatile visual tools that can effectively represent various processes, decision-making steps and problem-solving approaches regardless of their complexity.

In both cases, flowcharts offer a systematic and visual means of organizing information, identifying potential problems and facilitating collaboration among team members.

Can problem-solving flowcharts be used in any industry or domain?

Problem-solving flowcharts can be used in virtually any industry or domain. The versatility and effectiveness of flowcharts make them applicable to a wide range of fields such as Business and Management, Software Development and IT, Healthcare, Education, Finance, Marketing & Sales and a lot more other industries. 

Final thoughts

Problem-solving flowcharts are a valuable and versatile tool that empowers individuals and teams to tackle complex problems with clarity and efficiency.

By visually representing the step-by-step process of identifying, analyzing and resolving issues, flowcharts serve as navigational guides simplifying intricate challenges into digestible parts.

With the aid of modern tools like Venngage’s Flowchart Maker and Venngage’s Flowchart Templates , designing impactful flowcharts becomes accessible to all while revolutionizing the way problems are approached and solved.

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Home » Diagram » Comprehensive Guide to Problem Flow Diagrams

Comprehensive Guide to Problem Flow Diagrams

• Posted on September 21, 2023
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Introduction

Problem flow diagrams, also known as logic diagrams, are a valuable tool for breaking down complex issues into smaller, interconnected factors that contribute to the main problem. These diagrams empower individuals directly impacted by a problem by helping them gain a deeper understanding of the various elements that constitute a larger issue. Additionally, problem flow diagrams assist decision-makers in identifying steps they can take to address the problem or its components effectively.

The primary purpose of a problem flow diagram is to:

• Simplify Complexity: Problem flow diagrams break down complex issues into manageable components, making it easier to analyze and address specific aspects of the problem.
• Facilitate Understanding: They provide a visual representation of the problem, allowing stakeholders to grasp the interconnections between various factors.
• Empower Stakeholders: These diagrams empower individuals involved in problem-solving by giving them a clear view of the problem’s components and potential solutions.
• Inform Decision-Making: Problem flow diagrams help decision-makers identify areas that require immediate attention and prioritize actions.

Key Concepts and Elements

To create an effective problem flow diagram, you need to understand its key concepts and elements:

1. Problem Statement

Begin by defining the main problem or issue you want to address. This statement serves as the central focus of the diagram.

2. Causal Factors

Identify the factors or components that contribute to the problem. These are the elements that, when altered, can help mitigate or resolve the issue.

3. Relationships

Determine the relationships between causal factors. Establish how these factors interact with and influence each other. Use arrows or lines to represent these connections.

4. Solutions and Actions

For each causal factor, propose potential solutions or actions that can be taken to address or mitigate the issue. These are the steps that stakeholders can implement.

5. Prioritization

Assign priorities to causal factors and solutions based on their importance and urgency. This helps stakeholders focus on the most critical aspects of the problem.

Learn by Examples using Visual Paradigm Online

Visual Paradigm Online is a powerful tool for creating problem flow diagrams. Here are some examples using pre-made templates :

Example 1: Environmental Pollution

• Problem Statement: “Addressing Environmental Pollution.”
• Air Pollution
• Water Pollution
• Land Pollution
• Relationships: Show how these factors influence each other. For instance, depict how air pollution contributes to water pollution.
• Solutions and Actions: Identify specific actions like reducing emissions, enforcing pollution control regulations, and promoting sustainable practices.
• Prioritization: Highlight the most critical factors and actions, such as immediate emission reductions and stricter regulatory enforcement.

Example 2: Community Health Improvement

• Problem Statement: “Improving Community Health.”
• Lack of Access to Healthcare
• Poor Nutrition
• Sedentary Lifestyle
• Relationships: Illustrate how these factors interact. For instance, show how lack of access to healthcare contributes to poor nutrition.
• Solutions and Actions: Suggest actions like building healthcare facilities, promoting healthy eating habits, and encouraging physical activity.
• Prioritization: Emphasize urgent actions, such as increasing healthcare access and launching public health campaigns.

Problem flow diagrams are indispensable tools for tackling complex problems. They provide clarity, empower stakeholders, and inform effective decision-making. By breaking down issues into manageable components, you can address both localized community problems and larger societal challenges with precision and purpose. Utilize tools like Visual Paradigm Online to create visually engaging problem flow diagrams that facilitate understanding and drive positive change.

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  TEC 5970/INT 5970 Problem Solving Problem Solving Technique III: Flow Chart

When problems exist within a process or process segment, the problem solving team should clearly understand what is being done to the product at the various stages in the process. A completed flow chart should make the step by step procedure within the process clear to the entire team. In order to better present and understand the detailed process, standard symbols are used to indicate what is being done to the product, as in the following figure. This type of chart requires that everyone using the flow chart understand the symbols.

Flowchart symbol definition. Source: “Problem Solving Tools and Technique,” Saginaw Division, General Motors Corporation, Decatur, Alabama, pp. 20-23.

Example: Make a flowchart, complete with symbols for the process of buying a new car.

Solution: Step1 : Brainstorm for process steps. Read the new car literature. Decide on down payment. Check your budget for maximum payments. Visit a new car dealer. Pick a car you like. Discuss purchase price. Find out about the payments. Wait for the new car preparation. Check Compucar (gives dealer costs on model and options). Find out about extendable warranties. Investigate the length of payment period. Check on loan rates. Check the papers on price of your present car. Narrow your choices of cars. Look at the cars on the lot. Drive the car. Discuss trade price. Sign the papers and buy the car. Pick up the car. Do a final inspection. Drive the car home. Step 2: Make the flowchart.

Flowchart for buying a new car.

WORKING EXAMPLES

A. Using flow chart, describe the manufacturing process of a hydraulic fork lifter. To do so, you need to:

1. Brainstorm the details of the manufacturing process. 2. Use the standard symbols to configure the flow chart of major steps from the beginning. 3. Add more details on each major step.  

Class Resources School of Technology College of Business & Applied Sciences Eastern Illinois University

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Flow Charts

Identify and communicate your optimal process.

How often have you thought about streamlining a process in your organization but not been sure where to start? Or perhaps you've struggled to understand a process when it's described to you in detail.

Flow charts are a useful tool in these situations, as they make a process easy to understand at a glance. Using just a few words and some simple symbols, they show clearly what happens at each stage and how this affects other decisions and actions.

In this article and video, we look at how to create and use flow charts, and explore how they can help you to solve problems in your processes.

Click here   to view a transcript of this video.

What Is a Flow Chart?

Flow charts are easy-to-understand diagrams that show how the steps of a process fit together. American engineer Frank Gilbreth is widely believed to be the first person to document a process flow, having introduced the concept of a "Process Chart" to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers in 1921.

Flow charts tend to consist of four main symbols, linked with arrows that show the direction of flow:

1. Elongated circles, which signify the start or end of a process.

2. Rectangles, which show instructions or actions.

3. Diamonds, which highlight where you must make a decision.

4. Parallelograms, which show input and output. This can include materials, services or people.

You can use many other symbols in a flow chart but remember that these diagrams are used for communication   . If you use symbols that only a few people understand, you may fail to get your message across. So, be sure to keep things simple   !

When to Use a Flow Chart

All manner of organizations use flow charts to:

• Define a process.
• Standardize   a process.
• Communicate a process.
• Identify bottlenecks or waste   in a process.
• Solve a problem   .
• Improve a process.

For example, software developers can use them to work out how the automated and manual parts of a process join up. Inexperienced team members might follow a flow chart to help them to complete activities in the right order. A manufacturer could ensure that it keeps to its values by applying a quality-control flow chart that presents questions and decision points. And an HR department might combine a flow chart with an organogram   to show people who to contact about issues and when.

Why Use Flow Charts?

This tool's simplicity makes communicating and documenting a process quick and clear, so that the process will more likely be understood and applied correctly and consistently. It can also help you to estimate the timescale of the process, as you're better able to gauge the time needed for each task   along the way. And you'll more likely identify who you should involve and at what stage, such as senior management or a compliance authority.

But you can also benefit from the process of creating a flow chart itself, as you build it step by step. You'll be able to focus on the detail of each individual stage, without feeling overwhelmed by the rest of the process, and then "zoom out" again to see the wider picture.

If your process or project involves several people or teams, you might find it more useful to use a Swim Lane Diagram   rather than a flow chart – this helps you to show process flows between people and teams.

How to Create a Flow Chart

Follow these four steps:

Step 1: Identify Tasks

Begin by listing all of the tasks in a process in chronological order. Ask questions such as, "What happens next in the process?" or, "Do you need to make a decision before the next step?" or, "What approvals are required before you move on to the next task?"

Put yourself in the shoes of the person using the process, possibly for the first time. Talk to team members who work with the process directly, and get their opinions on where improvements could be made. Better yet, take a hands-on approach and go through the procedure yourself, and think about the practicalities of each stage. Use Customer Experience Mapping   if your flow chart focuses on customer service, so that you can gain a better understanding of the process.

Step 2: Organize and Document Tasks

Next, start your flow chart by drawing the elongated circle shape and labeling it "Start."

Then, work through your whole process, and show the actions and decisions in the order that they happen. Link them with arrows to illustrate the flow of the process.

Where you need to make a decision, draw arrows from the decision diamond to each possible solution, and then label each arrow with the decision made. Remember to show the end of the process by using an elongated circle labeled "Finish."

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Step 3: Double-Check the Process

When you've completed your flow chart, go back to the start and try it out to make sure that you haven't overlooked anything. Work through each step, and ask yourself whether you've represented the sequence of actions and the decisions involved correctly. Are there more decisions to be made at certain stages?

Then show your flow chart to other people, especially those who work directly with the process. Ask them to test that it works and to tell you if there are any problems or omissions.

Step 4: Challenge the Flow Chart

Finally, you might want to improve the process rather than just record it. So, see whether any of the steps that you've described are unnecessary or overly complicated. Identify any major bottlenecks   , and deal with them to improve performance.

Are there any missing steps, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, that you should add? And have you assigned tasks and decisions to the right people or automated them where it's most appropriate? Make any changes and then challenge the chart again.

As you challenge your flow chart, you might also be challenging your team members' tried and tested ways of working. So, take time to win support for your ideas and don't expect to change people's habits   overnight.

You may find that SIPOC diagrams   will give you the detailed information that you need to introduce change in a controlled and effective way.

Flow Chart Software

You'll likely start with drawing flow charts by hand, but it's often more convenient to use a diagramming app to save, amend and share your charts.

Such apps vary from the simple and free, such as draw.io , creately and Pencil Project , to the more complex and paid-for, such as gliffy™ , Lucidchart , SmartDraw™ , and Visio® .

Flow charts can quickly become long and complicated, so that you can't represent them on a single piece of paper. This is where you can use "connectors" (shown as numbered circles) to link the flow when moving from one page to another. The user can follow the matching numbers to trace the flow of the process.

The image below shows part of a flow chart for how the receptionists in an example company should route incoming phone calls to the correct department:

Flow charts are simple diagrams that map out a process, so that you can easily communicate it to other people. You can also use them to define and analyze a process, build a step-by-step picture of it, and then standardize or improve it.

To draw a flow chart, identify the tasks and decisions that you make during a process, and write them down in order.

Then, arrange these steps in the flow chart format, using the appropriate symbols.

Finally, check and challenge your flow chart to make sure that it accurately represents the process, and that it shows the most efficient way of doing the job.

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Comments (34)

• Over a month ago BillT wrote Hi saima-21, This is a good example of a simple flow chart. Can you think of any dependent tasks that you could add? Such as, what to do if there is cross traffic at Amber; or what output if traffic ahead is stopped on Amber? Thank you for your comment. BillT Mind Tools Team
• Over a month ago saima-21 wrote Write in Flowchart form: Asks the user to input the traffic light colour. If the traffic light colour is green, outputs ‘Go.’ If the traffic light colour is amber, outputs ‘Get Ready.’ Otherwise outputs ‘Stop.’
• Over a month ago Yolande wrote Hi denoboy Maybe the question mark you saw was a symbol for a question, meaning that the student had to come up with a suitable question. There needs to be a question in the diamond that will take the process either in one direction or the other. I hope that helps? Yolandé Mind Tools Team

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How to create a problem-solving flow chart

Problem-solving is one of those topics that we’ve often discussed on this site (check out our Problem Solving guide ). We think it’s one of  THE  vital skills of business. Why? Because you’ll come across problems every day, and you need to arm yourself with the right tools to solve them.

A problem-solving flowchart is one of those tools. It’ll help you take a problem statement, break the problem down into likely causes helping you get to the bottom of what’s gone wrong.

In this post, we’ll cover

• What is a Problem Solving Flow Chart
• How to create a Problem Solving flow chart
• Example 1 of Problem Solving flow chart
• Example 2 of Problem Solving Flow chart
• What flow chart shapes to use
• When should you use a flow chart
• 7 tips on creating your Problem Solving chart

Key Benefits & Likely issues with the tool

Let’s get started!

What is a Problem Solving Flowchart

A Problem Solving flow chart is a diagram that uses shapes, arrows, and text to show a moving sequence of actions and/or activities that help solve a problem.  

How to create a Problem Solving flowchart

• Describe your problem.
• Pose Yes/No Questions that can help identify the cause of the problem
• Question each stage of the process until it is fully examined
• Repeat steps 2 & 3 until you have identified a solution
• Try the solution; if it is successful in addressing the root cause, then you’ve fixed your problem. If not, repeat the process until you have a solution that works.

A problem-solving flowchart attempts to identify a root cause/solution to the trigger that is causing the problem allowing you to change the process and prevent the problem from occurring. 

Let’s now demonstrate the effectiveness of a problem solving flowchart by showing some examples.

Example 1 Problem solving flow chart

In our first example, we’re going to start with something simple to show you the principle of the tool.

We have been given a cup of tea and we don’t like it!  

Let’s use a problem-solving flow chart to find out what’s gone wrong.

We’ve used Excel to capture this flow chart using flowchart shapes (insert –> shapes), you can, of course, use other applications to do this, you don’t’ have to have specialized flow chart software to do this. ( there’s a great flowchart in Excel video here ). Or you can simply use a pen and paper.

Use a rectangle and add your problem statement.

Remember to keep your problem statement unambiguous and straightforward. Here we’ve used “I don’t like my cup of tea.”

Now that we’ve got our problem statement, we’re going to start asking questions.

We’re going to examine the variables that go into a cup of tea in an attempt to find out what’s gone wrong.

** TIP** – Work through your process – rather than start from scratch, if you have a documented process, work through that examining each step to ascertain if there are issues. If not, you might find it useful to research and sketch out the process before starting with your flowchart.

We have a process for the cup of tea, which is:

1/ Boil Water

2/ Place Breakfast Tea teabag in the cup

3/ Add Water

4/ Leave to sit for 2 mins

4/ Remove teabag

5/ Add milk

6/ Add sugar

So our problem solving flow chart needs to examine each of those steps to determine where the failure has occurred. 

We’ll add a question shape (diamond), connect out problem statement to it using an arrow to check if we boiled the kettle. Our Diagram will now look like:

As a question, we want two possible routes – Yes and No.

Our process asks us to boil the kettle if we did, and the answer is Yes, then we can go to the next process step.

If the answer is No, then we have a problem. Our tea will be cold. 

Here we can do one of two things. We can terminate the flow chart, or we can add an activity to rectify the problem (this might be to remake the drink or to perhaps heat the drink up in the microwave).

Our flow chart now looks like this:

Step 2 in our Tea making process was to add a Breakfast-tea tea bag.

So, once again, we’ll ask a question about that step.

“Did we add an English Breakfast teabag.”

As before, we’ll use a question shape, using Yes or No answers. If we performed the process step correctly, we’d move on. If we didn’t, we’ll either end the problem solving (we’ve found the root cause), or we’ll add a corrective action.

Now we’ll repeat this process until we’ve reviewed the whole process.

Our finished flowchart looks like this.

However, we’re not finished.

What happens if we follow the flow chart, and we find we didn’t use boiled water. We remake the tea using boiled water, and we still don’t like it?  

We need to ask some further questions.

We need to update our flow chart to validate that we solved the problem and what to do if we didn’t.

So for each step of the process, our problem solving flowchart now looks like this.

Here’s our completed flow chart.

As you can see, we’ve identified the problem, and we’ve described a corrective action.

But there’s a problem here. With this flowchart, you can still follow it, validating the process, and still end up with a cup of tea that’s unsatisfactory. 

Why is that?

Well, it’s perfectly possible that we started out with a process that’s incorrect. What happens if the process called for using an incorrect tea bag from the start?

So we’ll simplify things by adding a block at the end that if you’re still not happy at the end of reviewing the steps, a full review of the process will be undertaken. This is a simple answer to this problem, and I would expect that you would expand this section in more detail if you were creating a flowchart yourself.

So what does a more complex process look like, how about we look at a business problem?

Example 2 Problem Solving flow chart

OK, so example 1 may have been a bit simple, and you are maybe looking for something in a business context.

So in Example 2, let’s look at a scenario that’s a little more complex.

Let’s assume that your organization has received a non-conforming part. You have been assigned to work with the Vendor to:

• Find out what went wrong
• Prevent recurrence

We’re going to use a problem solving flow chart to help us do that.

As with the first example, we’re going to state the problem.

“The part is non conforming.”

Using the production process from the Vendor, we’ll work through the stages to see if we can spot what’s gone wrong.

The diagram below shows an analysis of the first two steps of the production process using a problem-solving flow chart.

The first thing you’ll notice is that on one process step, there may be many questions to ascertain the potential issue.  

Some of these may be complex and require careful thought.

There may be multiple variables (systems, processes, tools, inputs, etc.) that may require attention.

You will need to analyze each process step, in full, to be sure you have caught all the possible causes of the fault.

Which Flow chart shapes should you use.

A problem solving flow chart usually utilizes only a small number of shapes. We show these in the table below.

When should you use a Problem Solving flow chart

There are many many problem tools available.

A flow chart lends itself to be used when:

• You are looking for a tool that is simple to use
• You are looking to use a tool that does not require complex software
• You want to validate a  process.
• You want something that facilitates collaboration
• You want something that you can use to communicate with others

7 Tips on creating great problem solving flow charts

1/ Use standard shapes!

2/ Make it easy to follow!

3/ Keep things on one page

4/ Don’t overload your boxes with text

5/ Go into enough detail. Don’t try and simplify activities as it might hide problems from being seen.

6/ Collaborate. Where you can utilize a team to help document the problem and the activities do so. The more knowledge of the process, the better chance you’ll have of locating the issue.

7/ Use a consistent direction to flow your process, moving things around the page can confuse people who might look at it.

A flow chart can provide you with a great advantage when looking to solve problems. Some of the key benefits include

• A visual aide that’s easy to understand
• Simple to use, does not require hours and hours of training
• A tool that facilitates collaboration
• Effective for aiding communication
• Provides an effective method of analysing a process

However, as with everything, there are some issues to look out for

• Flowchart fails to capture all process steps and therefore root cause analysis is hit and miss
• Lack of knowledge of the process by the individual compiling the flowchart results in inaccurate problem solving
• Inconsistent flow of process makes maps confusing
• Complex processes may be better suited to other tools (fishbone etc)
• Inconsistent formatting and/or use of shapes result in flowchart that is difficult to utilise.

There are a great many tools out there for problem-solving, and flow charts can be used either as a stand-alone tool or conjunction with one of these other tools.

Flowcharts can make for a great problem-solving tool.  

They’re simple to use, effective, and facilitate collaboration.

We hope you’ve found our article useful, in particular the example walkthroughs.

If you’re looking to use the tool, we’d love some feedback from you and hearing how you’ve got on. Why not fire us a message on twitter or use the comments section below.

This article is part of our Problem Solving Guide.   

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Visual Problem Solving with Mind Maps and Flowcharts

Updated on: 25 July 2023

Everyone has problems, and we spend most of our working lives solving them. For those who find this quite negative, problems can be also termed as Issues, Challenges or Opportunities.

Some people are especially gifted at problem-solving while others struggle. Some are only good at solving some types of problems, while some other are simply great at finding viable solutions for any problem. Society generally calls the latter, smart.

What if I was to tell you that there’s a simple way to solve any problem you may encounter. In fact, it can be regarded as the smart way to solve problems.

Before we get into it, let’s see how people really fail at solving problems.

Problem-Solving   Fails

You Solve the Wrong Problem

Well, if you don’t know what the problem area is and don’t understand it very well, you’ll probably solve a problem that actually doesn’t exist while the actual problem remains as it is.

You Solve It Half Way

Again, this happens if you don’t know what the full problem is. Identifying and understanding the problem is so important before you start.

You Solve it but New Problems Show Up

This is typical when you don’t know much about the background about the problem area. If you know nothing about computers and you try to fix a broken computer, you probably won’t get very far and will likely make it worse.

You Don’t Know How

Well, obviously if you are trying to solve a problem that you have no clue about, this is going to be hard. When that’s the case, get the help of an expert in the domain the problem you are trying to solve belong to.

How to Solve Any Problem

As it’s quite clear the first step to solving any problem is understanding it thoroughly. Apart from getting a domain expert involved, the best trick I can bring you in is to draw it out. If you are a visual person this is the first thing you should do.

Different kinds of problems require different diagrams, but mind maps and flowcharts are common solutions to most problems.

Thinking Around the Problem

To get a background idea on what the problem and problem area is, mind maps can help greatly. Start with the core idea and branch out as you think about various aspects of the problem.

A mind map is a good place to start visual problem solving ( click on image to create your own mind map )

After thinking about wide aspects of the problem, it’s best to document what the immediate context of the issue is.

To do this, a concept map helps. A concept map is a diagram where you use various shapes to show areas of the problem and how they are connected.

Breaking It Down

Any big problem can be broken into a series of smaller problems. These are usually connected so a flowchart helps . Break the problem into smaller steps with a flowchart.

If you are analyzing an existing solution and trying to optimize it, a flowchart makes perfect sense as it also does the ‘defining’ part of the problem as well.

Analyze your problem further with a flowchart

Once you have broken down the problem into smaller easily solvable problems in a flow chart, you can start creating another chart for the solution as well.

Getting Help

You should always get help if it’s available when you are solving any problem. A second opinion or a second pair of eyes can help a lot in getting the optimal solution.

Tools to Aid Visual Problem Solving

While there is a myriad of tools to help you draw things, Creately is definitely one of the easiest ways to visualize your problem.

We support mind maps, flowcharts, concept maps and 50+ other diagram types which you can use for visual problem-solving.

Our professionally designed templates and productivity features  help you just focus on the drawing as it’s really easy to draw a beautiful diagram in it.

It also comes with built-in real-time collaboration so it helps when you want to get someone else to collaborate on your problem.

Other choices for drawing diagrams to solve problems include Dia, Google Draw or even Microsoft office packages.

Join over thousands of organizations that use Creately to brainstorm, plan, analyze, and execute their projects successfully.

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Flowcharting: The Three Common Types of Flowcharts

• 7 MINUTES READ

Also known as Flow Diagram, Activity Flowchart, Process Diagram.

Variants include Process Sequence Chart.

A flowchart is a visual representation tool that illustrates the flow of a business process and the interconnections between its activities. It allows to break up any process into individual activities and see how they fit together. The simplicity of flowcharts makes them useful for understanding any process and identifying areas of waste and inefficiency, thus facilitating targeted problem-solving efforts. They can be used across multiple industries and functions, making them universally applicable.

Flowcharts are ideal tools to visually representing business processes. For example, they are useful when trying to understand the step-by-step flow of activities in processes like purchase order or sales order in a company. They help in understanding what activities and decisions are involved, and thus, ensuring accurate execution in the right sequence. This is why they are often used to document how to do a particular job and can be found in procedures and quality manuals.

In addition to their role in documenting existing processes, flowcharts are also used when designing new processes aimed at facilitating organizational transformation. Software developers are using flowcharts to map out processes that need to be automated. Similarly, Kaizen teams are using them to identify and analyze problematic areas, subsequently streamlining the work and enhancing the performance .

Flowcharts are typically drawn with arrows and shapes of various kinds to denote different types of activities. While there is no universally prescribed format for flowcharts, adhering to a standardized set of shapes ensures they are drawn in a consistent manner. It is advisable to check whether your organization has established a standard set of shapes or symbols that must be adhered to.

The following outline the basic shapes that are applicable in most situations:

Activity – The most frequently used shape which represent the task or action to be performed (denoted as a plain rectangle).

Decision point – Requires a YES or NO response. Other options are also valid such as (TRUE or FALSE) and (LESS THAN, EQUAL or MORE THAN).

Start / End – Defines the process boundaries. Also used to indicate that a branch from a decision comes to an end.

Flow line – Connects the shapes and indicates the flow of the process as well as the loops.

A single flowchart can quickly become complex and lengthy. That’s why connectors are often used to link sub-processes and indicate converging paths. Moreover, additional shapes can be used to describe the type of activities more specifically. Additionally, flowcharts have the capability to incorporate supplementary information, such as assigning responsibility for each activity and specifying the time required for completing the activity.

Flowcharts are widely used in particular industries, such as software development, auditing and quality management. In each of these domains, industry-specific shapes and symbols are often used to ensure specific activity representation.

In the subsequent sections, we will discuss of the three common types of flowcharts.

Activity Flowcharts

An activity flowchart serves to illustrate the sequential order and progression of activities within a process, focusing on what happens. It represents the basic form of flowcharts and typically illustrates the flow of activities, their order, decision points, loops of rework and process boundaries. While there is no precise format for an activity flowchart, it is important that it is represented in a consistent and uniform manner.

Example – Making a Cup of Tea

Note: Cycle time refers to the duration from the initiation to the completion of a process. In the context of this example, it is the time required to prepare a cup of tea.

Example – Preparing Reports for Decision Makers

Note: Flowcharts have the capacity to incorporate additional information. In this particular example, performance indicators that need to be captured have been included above specific activities.

Example – Changeover

The following is an example of a flowchart that has been created for a changeover operation, specifically a size conversion, for a production line.

Note: There is a rework loop in this manufacturing process where the approver rejects to run the line until the specified requirements are met.

Swimlane Flowcharts

A process is described as a cross-functional when it involves multiple departments, and a swimlane flowchart illustrates the sequence of activities required to accomplish a cross-functional process. This type of flowchart is divided into multiple lanes , representing the multiple responsibilities within the process. Activities or decisions falling within a specific lane are under the control of the corresponding department, work group, or individual. This helps clarifying the responsible for executing activities and making decisions.

Swimlane flowcharts are particularly helpful for non-manufacturing processes that mainly involve the flow of information, knowledge, and documents across multiple functions. Such processes often involve many handoffs where information and documents are exchanged among departments, work groups or individuals. An excessive number of handoffs within a process can indicate potential waste due to unnecessary transporting, wasted motion or overprocessing.

Example – Acquiring New Equipment

The following example illustrates a cross-functional flowchart showcasing the process of equipment acquisition in a company.

Opportunity Flowcharts

An opportunity flowchart provides a way to analyze and study business processes by highlighting those steps that contribute to waste and complexity. This type of flowchart is typically divided into two sections to differentiate the activities and decisions that add value from those that do not.

These types of flowcharts will increase the awareness regarding what previously was accepted as normal and unavoidable waste . By isolating the non-value-added steps, the opportunity flowchart facilitates a clearer identification of areas for improvement. The elimination or reduction of non-value activities presents a significant opportunity to simplify and streamline the process, and this is one of the core objectives of the lean methodology.

Example – Use of an Office Copy Machine

With the development of this flowchart, it becomes clearer where continuous improvement efforts should be focused to maximize value delivery. For example, implementing regular cleaning of the copier glass and monitoring paper availability are potential improvement ideas for this process.

Constructing a Flowchart

Whether you want to draw an activity flowchart, a swimlane flowchart, or an opportunity flowchart, the following straightforward steps can help you construct your flowchart:

• With your team, describe the process and your objectives.
• Determine the type of flowchart, the level of detail, and the appropriate scope and boundaries.
• Brainstorm and identify all major process activities, decisions and the sequence of completion.
• Draft the flowchart using the standard set of shapes, Label each step appropriately.
• Prepare the final flowchart, check for missing activities or decisions, and add further details as necessary.
• Test the flowchart to make sure that it represents the process accurately and completely.
• Publish and distribute the completed final version of the flowchart to all concerned.
• Update the procedures and other documentation as necessary.
• Identify the areas that hinder the process or add little or no value for further process improvement.
• Plan and implement actions to reduce inefficiencies and waste.

Flowcharts and Document Management

Every company should establish a standardized way for documenting their procedures and processes. Flowcharts prove to be useful in summarizing a procedure, process or work instruction. They can play an important role in document management and may either be included under the relevant procedure or be placed in the appendix at the end of the document or manual.

Flowcharts and Software Applications

The process of drawing a detailed flowchart can be an overwhelming task. This is where applications and online services can offer the flexibility that a piece of paper cannot. While it is possible to create flowcharts by hand, it is often more convenient to use any of the drawing applications to create visually appealing flowcharts. A recommended practice is to initially draft the flowchart on paper before refining it using an application.

There are many software applications and online services that allow the creation of professional flowcharts including Microsoft Visio, SmartDraw and Micrografx. However, one of the simplest ways is to use this flowchart template .

Wrapping Up

Flowcharts facilitate documentation of current job procedures, and are useful when designing new processes aimed at facilitating organizational transformation. They are commonly utilized by system analysts, software developers, and Kaizen teams, and are often found in procedures and quality manuals. By addressing areas of inefficiency, such as unnecessary activities, bottlenecks, complex procedures and missing steps, flowcharts empower organizations to optimize their operations.

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• Problem Solving / Decision Making

Problem Solving Diagrams - Flowcharts

A flow chart can be a useful tool in problem solving. You can see at a glance how your decisions and actions affect the outcome of your problem solving process. This lesson will help you learn the symbols and steps for writing a flowchart. 

Video - Introduction to Creating Flowcharts

Video - lucidchart introduction, "what is my grade" flowchart.

Computer programmers use flowcharts and other types of diagrams to help visualize the steps and  flow  of the program. This can help to see any errors in the logic before they begin to program. Flowcharts can be used no matter what computer language the program will be written in.

If you wanted to write a computer program that inputs a quiz score and then outputs the letter grade that corresponds to that quiz score, you may want to think about the steps that you would use to create this program.

Task Instructions:

1. View the tutorial above for information on how to use Lucidchart to create a flowchart.

2. This is the algorithm that your flowchart should follow:

Input test score

Decision: Is score greater than 89?

Decision: Is score between 80 and 89?

Decision: Is score between 70 and 79?

Decision: Is score between 60 and 69?

Decision: Is score less than 60?

2. You will use the following symbols for this flowchart: Start/End symbols (this symbol is called Terminator in Lucidchart), Decision symbols, Input/Output (Data) symbols 

3.  Click here for the What is my Grade Flowchart Template .  Click on  File , then  Make Copy

4.   Create your flowchart according to the instructions on the template.

"Time For Lunch" Flowchart

Summarize the lesson by discussing with the students the reasons a computer programmer might use a flowchart.

You want to order lunch at a fast food restaurant. You know you want a hamburger, but aren't sure if you'd like fries and a drink. To practice creating a flowchart, think about the steps that you take to solve this problem. Instructions:

Click HERE to go to Lucidchart.com . 

Click HERE to open the TIME FOR LUNCH Flowchart

Click on  File  and choose to  Make a Copy

• Follow the instructions on the  TIME FOR LUNCH Flowchart  to fill in the correct text in the flowchart symbols.   Click HERE to view a tutorial on how to properly fill out this chart .

Version History

Problem-solving – Flowchart example

The flowchart starts with identifying a problem. After the problem is identified, data is gathered and analyzed. Then, the solution is developed and the best solution is identified. If it isn’t successful, the solution development process starts again. If successful, the plan is implemented and is improved continuously.

Edit this diagram in Gleek

Problem-Solving diagram code in Gleek

Start:queue Identify the problem Data gathering Analyze data Solution development Identify the best solution Successful?:diamond Plan implementation Continue to improve Finish:queue Start–>Identify the problem Identify the problem–>Data gathering Data gathering–>Analyze data Analyze data–>Solution development Solution development–>Identify the best solution Identify the best solution–>Successful? Successful?-no->Solution development Successful?-yes->Plan implementation Plan implementation–>Continue to improve Continue to improve–>Finish

About Flowcharts

A flowchart, or flow chart, is a type of diagram that shows a step-by-step view of a process. Flowcharts document the tasks and decisions needed to achieve a specific goal. A basic flowchart is easy to make and understand. Businesses, engineers and software designers often use flowcharts to diagram their ideas.

Similar flowchart examples

Product development flowchart

A/B testing flowchart

Patient transfer in hospital flowchart

Credit card payment process flowchart

Alarm clock flowchart

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Offshore Flowchart for problem solving. Will get you through the day when you come accross a problem.

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Does the Damn Thing Work?

OILFIELD PROBLEM SOLVING FLOWCHART

Don’t Fuck With It

Does Anyone

Did YOU Fuck

YESYOU DUMB ASS

Will You Catch

Hell for It?

SHIT CAN IT

Problem Solved

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