How do you define and map the scope of your process?

1 Identify the problem

The first step is to identify the problem that your process is trying to solve or the opportunity that it is trying to seize. You need to understand the root cause, the impact, and the urgency of the problem or opportunity, as well as the current state of your process. You can use tools such as the problem statement, the fishbone diagram, or the 5 whys to help you with this step.

2 Define the objectives

The next step is to define the objectives of your process improvement or redesign. You need to specify what you want to achieve, how you will measure it, and why it is important. You can use tools such as the SMART criteria, the balanced scorecard, or the value proposition canvas to help you with this step.

3 Identify the scope

The third step is to identify the scope of your process, which is the extent of your analysis and change. You need to determine what is in scope and what is out of scope, as well as the assumptions and constraints that affect your process. You can use tools such as the project charter, the scope statement, or the context diagram to help you with this step.

4 Map the process

The fourth step is to map the process, which is the visual representation of your process flow. You need to identify the inputs, outputs, activities, and roles of your process, as well as the dependencies, variations, and exceptions that occur. You can use tools such as the process map, the swimlane diagram, or the value stream map to help you with this step.

5 Analyze the process

The fifth step is to analyze the process, which is the evaluation of your process performance and potential. You need to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of your process, as well as the gaps, wastes, and inefficiencies that exist. You can use tools such as the SWOT analysis, the gap analysis, or the lean analysis to help you with this step.

6 Validate the scope

The final step is to validate the scope of your process, which is the confirmation of your analysis and findings. You need to verify that your scope is aligned with your objectives, that your process map is accurate and complete, and that your analysis is relevant and reliable. You can use tools such as the scope validation checklist, the stakeholder feedback, or the pilot testing to help you with this step.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?