What are the most common mistakes when using a flowchart?

1 Wrong symbols

One of the first mistakes you can make is using the wrong symbols for your flowchart. Each symbol has a specific meaning and function, and you should follow the standard conventions to avoid ambiguity. For example, a rectangle represents a process or action, a diamond represents a decision or a question, and a circle represents a connector or a reference. If you use a rectangle for a decision, you might imply that there is only one possible outcome, or that the decision is already made. To avoid this mistake, learn the common symbols and their meanings, and use them consistently throughout your flowchart.

2 Too much detail

Another mistake you can make is including too much detail in your flowchart. While you want to be clear and comprehensive, you also want to be concise and focused. If you add too many steps, sub-processes, or text, you might overwhelm your audience, lose sight of your main goal, or create unnecessary complexity. To avoid this mistake, define the scope and level of detail of your flowchart before you start, and use sub-flowcharts or references to break down larger or more detailed processes. Also, use simple and clear language, and avoid jargon or technical terms that might confuse your audience.

3 Too little detail

On the other hand, you can also make the mistake of including too little detail in your flowchart. This can happen if you skip important steps, omit relevant information, or assume that your audience knows everything you do. If you do this, you might create gaps, inconsistencies, or misunderstandings in your flowchart, and fail to communicate your process or problem effectively. To avoid this mistake, review your flowchart from the perspective of your audience, and check if it answers the key questions of who, what, when, where, why, and how. Also, use labels, annotations, or legends to explain any symbols, abbreviations, or data that might need clarification.

4 Poor layout

Another common mistake you can make is having a poor layout for your flowchart. This can affect the readability, aesthetics, and logic of your flowchart. For example, if you use different shapes, sizes, or colors for your symbols, you might create visual clutter or confusion. If you use too many crossing lines or arrows, you might create visual noise or ambiguity. If you arrange your symbols in an illogical or inconsistent order, you might create logical errors or contradictions. To avoid this mistake, follow some basic design principles for your flowchart. For example, use a grid, align your symbols horizontally or vertically, use straight lines or arrows, and avoid crossing them. Also, use the same shape, size, and color for the same type of symbol, and follow the natural flow of reading from left to right and top to bottom.

5 No testing

The final mistake you can make is not testing your flowchart. This can lead to errors, oversights, or inefficiencies in your flowchart. If you do not test your flowchart, you might miss some flaws, gaps, or improvements that you could have identified and corrected. To avoid this mistake, test your flowchart before you finalize or share it. You can do this by running through each step and decision, and checking if they are accurate, complete, and logical. You can also ask someone else to review your flowchart, and give you feedback or suggestions. Testing your flowchart can help you ensure that it meets your objectives, and that it is clear, effective, and reliable.

6 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?