Comprehensive Guide to Creating Flowcharts

Flowcharts are visual representations of processes, algorithms, or workflows. They help in understanding and communicating complex processes in a clear and concise manner. This guide will walk you through the basics of creating flowcharts using common symbols and a realistic example.

Flowchart Symbols

Before diving into creating a flowchart, it’s essential to understand the basic symbols used:

1. Terminal Symbols:

   • Start/End: Represented by an oval or rounded rectangle. Indicates the beginning or end of a process.

2. Processing:

   • Step: Represented by a rectangle. Indicates a process, action, or operation.

3. Input/Output:

   • Input/Output: Represented by a parallelogram. Indicates input or output operations.

4. Connectors:

   • On/Off: Represented by a circle with a label inside. Used to connect different parts of the flowchart.

5. Decision Box:

   • Decision: Represented by a diamond. Indicates a decision point with two or more possible outcomes.

6. Flow:

   • Flow: Represented by arrows. Indicates the direction of the flow or sequence of steps.

Creating a Flowchart

Step 1: Define the Process

Identify the process you want to represent. Break it down into smaller steps or actions.

Step 2: Use Symbols Appropriately

Use the appropriate symbols to represent each step of the process.

Step 3: Connect the Steps

Use arrows to connect the steps in the correct sequence. Ensure that the flow is logical and easy to follow.

Step 4: Add Decision Points

Identify points where decisions need to be made and use the decision box symbol. Add branches for each possible outcome.

Step 5: Review and Refine

Review the flowchart to ensure it accurately represents the process. Make any necessary adjustments.

Realistic Flowchart Example

Let’s create a flowchart for a simple process: “Order Processing System.”

Step 1: Define the Process

The order processing system involves the following steps:

1. Receive Order
2. Check Inventory
3. Process Payment
4. Ship Order
5. Send Confirmation

Step 2: Use Symbols Appropriately

• Start: Oval
• Receive Order: Rectangle
• Check Inventory: Decision Box
• Process Payment: Rectangle
• Ship Order: Rectangle
• Send Confirmation: Rectangle
• End: Oval

Step 3: Connect the Steps

Use arrows to connect the steps in the correct sequence.

Step 4: Add Decision Points

Add a decision box for “Check Inventory” with branches for “In Stock” and “Out of Stock.”

Step 5: Review and Refine

Review the flowchart to ensure it accurately represents the order processing system.

Conclusion

Creating flowcharts is a powerful way to visualize and communicate processes. By understanding the basic symbols and following a structured approach, you can create clear and effective flowcharts for any process.