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Writer's pictureWei Wan

Introduction to Flowcharts


A flowchart is a diagram that represents a process or a workflow. It uses various shapes to represent different types of information and functions. It also uses arrows to show the direction and sequence of the process. When these shapes and flowlines are combined to create a flowchart, a simple yet powerful tool is created for communication and process analysis.


Below is a set of common flowchart symbols:

flowchart shapes
flowchart shapes

It is estimated that 65% of the population are visual learners. Flowcharts help us visualize a process. It also helps us identify potential areas of issues and make changes to optimize a process.


Swimlanes


Flowcharts can be further organized with swimlanes or functional bands. This methodology helps assign each decision, process, or other flowchart function to the appropriate department.


Below is an example of a flowchart with swimlanes. Note the it is not an actual process but a generic representation to illustrate a flowchart with swimlanes.

Flowchart with swimlanes
Flowchart with swimlanes

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