This document discusses flow charts, which are tools that graphically represent processes from beginning to end. Flow charts use basic symbols like ellipses, rectangles, diamonds, and arrows to map out actions, decisions, and the flow of a process. An advanced form is a PERT chart that also incorporates time resources. Flow charts can be used to analyze existing processes or plan new ones, and the process of drafting one can involve either step-by-step work or an initial brainstorming phase followed by structuring.

1. Tool C5Flow chart
A flow chart (or flowchart) is a tool which graphi-
cally represents the steps of a process from the
beginning to the end. It can be used for analytical
as well as for planning purposes. An advanced
form of a flow chart including the planning of time
resources, is a PERT, a Programme Evaluation and
Review Technique.
Three basic symbols (e.g. in PowerPoint or cards
when represented on a moderation board) are
needed for representing a whole process with its
fundamental steps:
• an ellipse with rounded corners for the begin-
ning and the end of the process,
• a rectangle for all actions in the course of the
process, and
• a diamond for all decisions to be taken, finally
• arrows for indicating the flow of actions and
decisions.
The second graphic represents the process of
decisions and actions when you turn your TV on.
The collective process of
drafting such a process can
be organised
• as a step by step process
or
• as a brainstorming proc-
ess with a collection of
all actions and decisions
which then is followed by
a structuring process.
It is obvious that social or
organisational processes
unlike most technical proc-
esses may have more than
one possible procedural
structure.
21.07.2008, 14:32:03