PART 2: 15 mistakes you would unintentionally make with flowcharts

In certain flowcharts, processes do tend to fork. For the sake of clarity, it is best that you specify whether one branch needs to be followed or all of them.

10. Beware of loops

Processes may not run forever. However, make sure that you do document processes that may be too excessive that it affects the clarity of the flowchart.

11. Be descriptive

It is suggested that you use a footnote, a call out or even a separate document to offer more detail for those process step descriptions that may need more detail.

12. Use a flowchart key

One of the best practices of using flowcharts is to have a flowchart key describing the symbols that are used.

13. Battling inaccuracy

When drawing flowcharts, remember that verifying the flowchart steps is critical to avoid any inaccuracies.

14. Stick to one level of detail

It’s best that you stick to a certain level of detail, e.g. a high-level, mid-level (like the diagram above) or detailed flowchart.

15. Don’t leave room for any uncertainty

Planning ahead would mean that you avoid any unwanted mistakes. So ensure that you ask questions like, “What happens next?”, “Is there a decision made now?”, and “Has the process description been complete?”

We hope this series has been useful. For more information on flowcharting, you can check out our site. If you got any queries or comments, please do get through to us.