A business process flowchart typically starts with an event that triggers the process and ends with the desired outcome or deliverable.
Here's a breakdown of the components:
Start: The Triggering Event
- Event: This is the initial action or occurrence that sets the process in motion.
- Examples: A customer order, a new employee onboarding, a product defect report.
- Symbol: A flowchart usually uses a rounded rectangle to represent the starting event.
End: The Desired Outcome
- Outcome: This is the final result or deliverable that the process aims to achieve.
- Examples: A completed customer order, a fully onboarded employee, a resolved product defect.
- Symbol: A flowchart commonly uses a rectangle with a double border to represent the ending outcome.
Example
Let's consider a simple business process flowchart for "Order Fulfillment":
- Start: Customer places an order (rounded rectangle)
- Process: Order is processed, inventory is checked, payment is verified, goods are packaged, shipping label is generated (rectangles)
- End: Order is shipped (rectangle with double border)
By understanding the start and end points of a process, you can clearly define its scope and ensure that it delivers the intended value.
