Know about PROCESS MAPPING
Dr. Muralidharan K
Founder Director - VALUE Enablers' Academy, Specialist in Lean | Kaizen | Six Sigma.
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What is process mapping?
Process mapping is a powerful tool that can help businesses to improve their efficiency and effectiveness. Process mapping is the visual representation of all the steps and tasks that make up a specific process. It can be used to document an existing process or map out a new one. By creating a visual representation of a process, it is easier to see where bottlenecks or inefficiencies occur. It can also help to identify opportunities for improvement and streamlining.
There are many different ways to create a process map, but the most important thing is to ensure that all relevant information is included. The map should show all of the steps in the process, as well as who is responsible for each step. It is also important to include any decision points, as these can be critical areas for improvement.
Once a process map has been created, it can be used to help implement changes and improvements. By sharing the map with all relevant employees, it will be easier to ensure that everyone understands the new process and knows what their role is.
Benefits of process mapping
In any business, large or small, there are always processes in place to complete tasks and goals. There are many benefits of process mapping, which include:
1. Improved communication - When everyone can see the steps involved in a process, it's easier to communicate about that process. This improved communication can lead to a better understanding of the process and how it works.
2. Increased efficiency - By mapping out a process, you can see where there might be bottlenecks or areas that are taking too much time. This can help you to streamline the process and make it more efficient.
3. Improved quality - With a documented process, it's easier to spot mistakes and areas for improvement.
4. Greater control - By knowing where a process is, you can ensure that it continues to run smoothly, even if new people come on board or if employees are absent.
5. Reduced risk - If the process is well documented, it's easier to spot problems and fix them before they become big problems.
6. Increased visibility - With a documented process, you can easily share the information with others throughout your organization.
How to create a process map
Creating a process map can be helpful in a variety of situations. For example, if you're trying to optimize a business process, or troubleshoot an issue with a current process, having a visual representation of the steps involved can be very helpful.
In order to create a process map, there are a few steps that need to be followed.
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Common mistakes in process mapping
One of the most common mistakes made when creating a process map is failing to take into account the different types of processes that exist.
There are three primary types of processes: operational, management, and support. Each type has its own unique characteristics and needs to be represented accordingly in the process map.
Another mistake that is often made is not including all of the relevant stakeholders in the process mapping exercise. It is important to get input from everyone who will be affected by the process being mapped. This will ensure that the map accurately reflects reality and all potential problems are identified.
Finally, another common mistake is failing to update the process map on a regular basis. As processes change and evolve, so too must the map. By keeping it up-to-date, you can avoid confusion and ensure that everyone is working from the same understanding of the process.
Best practices for process mapping
In business, process mapping is the visualization of the steps that make up a particular process. By creating a process map, businesses can more easily see where improvements can be made. There are a few best practices to keep in mind when creating a process map.
First, it's important to start with the big picture. What is the overall goal of the process? Once that is determined, you can then begin to break down the individual steps. Each step should be clearly defined and easy to understand.
Next, you'll want to consider who will be using the map. Will it just be for internal reference or will it need to be shared with other departments or outside partners? The level of detail will need to be adjusted accordingly.
Finally, once the map is created, it's important to review it regularly and update as needed.
Conclusion
Process mapping is a technique used to document, understand and communicate business processes.
Process mapping is a way of visually representing a process so that it is easier to understand, manage and improve. Process mapping can be used to map any type of process, from simple to complex.
Dr. Lean Murali
Lean Master Coach
PS: The Article written above is from the learnings from various books on Lean & Six Sigma. Due credit to all the Lean & Six sigma thinkers who have shared their thoughts through their books/articles/case studies
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Strategic Business Growth Partner For Operational Excellence | Product Sourcing & Order management in home | Furniture & Home Decor | Tech. Audit | Inspections | Lean Six Sigma Black Belt| Ex- Indian Inc, World Market US
2 年Hello Dr. Murli, the article on process mapping is quite good and self-explanatory. These specific inputs by you would make a lot of sense and difference to people are not well verse with these tools and their benefits in their area of work. Thanks
Director at T A International
2 年Very useful article. Nicely compiled after going through many related books and articles. Thank you for your initiative to help others to know more about process mapping.
Engineering, Design, Manufacturing, and Business for a wide range of products in Electro-mechanical and Mechanical Division
2 年Most important one to run an organization efficiently. We understand this is simple when keeping in mind with our busy schedule. When placing it over the paper and organizing it will show us the trend of an organization. Appreciate your work Doctor!
PharmaD, Global Health Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist
2 年Do you have a tool that you can recommend for Swimlane Diagrams
PharmaD, Global Health Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist
2 年A VERY NICE ARTICLE. thank you very much dear Dr Lean @Murali