Flow diagram shapes are standardized symbols used to represent different steps or actions in a flow diagram. They provide a visual representation of the flow of a process, making it easier to understand and analyze. Common flow diagram shapes include rectangles (for processes), diamonds (for decisions), ovals (for start and end points), and arrows (to show the direction of flow).
Flow diagram shapes are important because they help to:
- Visualize complex processes
- Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies
- Improve communication between team members
- Document processes for future reference
The use of flow diagram shapes has a long history, dating back to the early days of computing. In the 1940s, flowcharts were developed as a way to represent the flow of programs. Flow diagram shapes were standardized in the 1970s, and they have been used extensively ever since.
1. Rectangles
Rectangles are one of the most basic and important flow diagram shapes. They represent processes or actions, which are the fundamental building blocks of any flow diagram. Without rectangles, it would be impossible to show the flow of a process from start to finish.
The use of rectangles to represent processes or actions is based on the idea of a “black box.” A black box is a system or process that can be represented by its inputs and outputs, without regard to its internal workings. In a flow diagram, a rectangle represents a black box that performs a specific process or action. The inputs and outputs of the process are shown by arrows that connect the rectangle to other shapes in the flow diagram.
For example, a flow diagram might use a rectangle to represent the process of ordering a product from an online store. The inputs to the process would be the customer’s order information, and the output would be the order confirmation. The rectangle would be labeled “Order Product” to indicate the process that it represents.
Rectangles are a simple and effective way to represent processes or actions in a flow diagram. They are easy to understand and they can be used to create flow diagrams that are clear and concise.
2. Diamonds
Diamonds are another important flow diagram shape. They represent decisions, which are points in a process where the flow can branch in two or more directions. Decisions are typically represented by questions, and the arrows that connect the diamond to other shapes in the flow diagram show the possible outcomes of the decision.
For example, a flow diagram might use a diamond to represent the decision of whether or not to purchase a product. The question might be “Purchase product?”, and the arrows that connect the diamond to other shapes would show the possible outcomes of the decision. One arrow might lead to a rectangle that represents the process of purchasing the product, while the other arrow might lead to a rectangle that represents the process of not purchasing the product.
Diamonds are a powerful tool for representing decisions in a flow diagram. They help to make the flow diagram more clear and concise, and they can also help to identify potential problems in the process. By understanding how to use diamonds to represent decisions, you can create flow diagrams that are effective and easy to understand.
Here are some tips for using diamonds to represent decisions in a flow diagram:
- Use a clear and concise question to represent the decision.
- Use arrows to show the possible outcomes of the decision.
- Make sure that the diamonds are connected to other shapes in the flow diagram.
By following these tips, you can create flow diagrams that are clear, concise, and easy to understand.
3. Ovals
Ovals are another important flow diagram shape. They represent start and end points, which are the beginning and end of a process. Start points are typically represented by an oval with a single arrow pointing out, while end points are typically represented by an oval with a single arrow pointing in.
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Facet 1: Start Points.
Start points indicate the beginning of a process. They are often used to represent the initial state of a system or the input to a process. -
Facet 2: End Points.
End points indicate the end of a process. They are often used to represent the final state of a system or the output of a process. -
Facet 3: Multiple Start/End Points.
A flow diagram can have multiple start and end points. This is often used to represent processes that have multiple entry and exit points. -
Facet 4: Nested Processes.
Ovals can also be used to represent nested processes. A nested process is a process that is contained within another process. This is often used to represent complex processes that have multiple steps.
By understanding how to use ovals to represent start and end points, you can create flow diagrams that are clear, concise, and easy to understand.
Conclusion
Flow diagram shapes are a powerful tool for visualizing and understanding processes. They provide a clear and concise way to represent the steps in a process, the decisions that need to be made, and the start and end points of the process. By understanding how to use flow diagram shapes, you can create flow diagrams that are effective and easy to understand.
Flow diagrams can be used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Documenting processes
- Troubleshooting problems
- Planning projects
- Improving communication between team members
If you are involved in any process improvement or planning activities, I encourage you to learn more about flow diagram shapes and how to use them. Flow diagrams can be a valuable tool for helping you to understand and improve your processes.