You’ve heard of the saying ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’. This applies to process maps. It is generally easier to interpret and understand a visual map of a process than to explain it in many words. Well documented processes are key to a successful business, however before you can document or explain to the rest of the team how a process is meant to be carried out of followed, you must first ‘map’ out the process.
Just the act of ‘mapping out’ the process on a whiteboard or large piece of paper will show up where inefficiencies and disorganised functions are within processes. Creating a process map for all the sub-parts of an overall business will reduce the amount of explanation needed when completing the manuals required to document the whole business.
Using process maps will help see where improvements can be made in a ‘customer journey’ for example. A process map can also help in explaining to staff who have English as their second language.
Process maps are helpful in making sure all parts of the business have a clear understanding of what is required in order to process a job and what their responsibilities are.