Flow Charting

Process Mapping Methodology

Flow Charting

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Flow Charting
    Parallel Process
    Pseudo-Parallel Process
    Outside Operations
    Component Assembly

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Analysis

Flow Charting the Process

The first step in process mapping is to determine the flow or sequence of steps/activities that is required to complete a process task. This information can be gathered by routings or interviews. It may also be beneficial to gather people from different areas of the company to discuss how information or activities flow from one department to the other. Flow charting a process will help in organizing the tagging activity for process mapping. It is critical to acquire information on every process/path that takes place to complete a task.

Critical Path

The critical path on a process map is simply the longest path that a part has to travel to complete a task.

There are four major flow chart scenarios that may be encountered:

1. Parallel Process Flow Chart

Sub-assemblies or sub components are built simultaneously and brought together at a common point for final assembly or process.

Plot the critical path (red line

) which is characterized by the longest lead time part and final path. If other parts are also important, make individual process maps for those parts.

2. Pseudo-Parallel Process Flow Chart

Sub-assemblies or sub components are built as the product is being assembled.

Plot the critical path (red line

) which is characterized by the longest lead time path. If other parts are also important, make individual process maps for those parts.

3. Outside Operations Flow Chart
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Part is shipped out of the department or facility for processing before continuing to the next step. Example: Outside heat treat, special machining, plating, etc.

Plot the entire path (red line

) including the outside operation (red dashed line - - - ) even if the outside operation is very long. A specific process map of the outside operation should also be considered if it is a major component of the overall lead time.

4. Component Assembly Flow Chart

Component parts are assembled together down a central assembly line.

Plot the central critical path (red line

) which is characterized by the longest lead time path. If individual component lead times are critical, a separate process map should be made for those components.

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Last Modified on: 5-Apr-2001