Flowcharts and Process Automation: Improving Business Processes

In the world of business, efficiency is the name of the game. Whether you're a small startup or a global corporation, streamlining your operations can mean the difference between success and stagnation. Flowcharts, those deceptively simple diagrams, play a pivotal role in this pursuit of efficiency. A flowchart visually represents a sequence of manual tasks and activities.

But what if you could transform your flowchart into an automated powerhouse with the help of a no-code process automation tool? Let's explore how this transformation is possible and why it matters.

The Flowchart: A Map of Manual Tasks and Activities

A flowchart is a map that guides you through a sequence of tasks and activities. It's a simple yet effective way to visualize a process. Each activity and task is represented by a shape, connected by arrows that show the direction of the process flow.

It's a tool introduced with the presentation "Process Charts: First Steps in Finding the One Best Way to Do Work" to the?American Society of Mechanical Engineers (AMSE)?members by Frank B. Gilbert in 1921.

Since then, flowcharts have become standard for anyone who aims to improve processes. Like Lean Six Sigma consultants who seek to resolve bottlenecks and redundant activities or Software Engineers who aim to automate repetitive, mundane manual tasks. All to improve the process efficiency and increase customer satisfaction.

Imagine creating a flowchart to outline the steps involved in providing a quote on a customer's request. Each box in the flowchart represents a task, such as "Receive Request," "Create Quote," "Approve," and "Send to Prospect." Connecting arrows depict the order in which these tasks should be performed. In essence, a flowchart is a manual guide for carrying out these tasks in sequence.

From Manual to Automated

Imagine transforming that flowchart into a dynamic, automated process without writing a single line of software code. Here's where, in 2023, the magic happens.

No-code process automation tools make this transition remarkably accessible for any business. It allows small startups and global enterprises to reduce the manual labor required to perform the tasks and activities, reduce errors, and better serve customers. All without starting a software development project or hiring software engineers from a market with a high demand

With Zenphi's no-code process automation too, you turn your flowchart into an automated workflow that effortlessly executes each step in the process without writing a single line of software.

Let's revisit our purchase order approval flowchart. Instead of manually moving through the steps, a no-code automation tool can handle the entire process. It can automatically generate notifications, route the generated quote to the correct approver, and even update your CRM system – all based on the logic you've outlined in your flowchart.

Automate your activities and tasks into a smooth-running automated process

Here are three simple visuals to help you understand how you can create a flowchart and automate your process:

1. Visualize Your Tasks and Activities in A Flowchart:

First, creating a flowchart laying out the (manual) steps in your process.

• Start with a blank canvas.
• Use shapes like rectangles for tasks, diamonds for decisions, and arrows to connect them.
• Label each shape with a task or activity.
• Connect the shapes with arrows to represent the sequence.
• Your flowchart visually outlines the manual process, and you will something like this:

2. Connect with Automation:

Next, enter the world of Zenphi no-code process automation.

• Translate each task in your flowchart into automation steps.
• Set conditions and rules for decision points.
• Define the trigger that initiates the process.
• Your flowchart transforms into an automated workflow.

3. See the Magic Unfold:

As you complete the automation connections, something remarkable happens. Your once-manual process starts to flow seamlessly without manual intervention. Data is collected, emails are sent, and tasks are assigned—all following the logical path you outlined in your flowchart.

No Code Process Automation: Breathe life into Flowcharts

In essence, a flowchart is the first step toward process automation. It's the visualization of manual tasks and activities. When you pair it with a no-code process automation tool, you breathe life into that flowchart, turning it into a dynamic, efficient process.

So, the next time you face a complex process, grab a piece of paper and start drawing. Your flowchart is the key to unlocking automation's full potential. It's the bridge that takes you from manual to automated and is worth crossing in today's fast-paced business landscape.

Embrace the power of Zenphi's No-Code Process Automation, and watch your daily mundane manual tasks evolve into automated solutions!

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