Flowchart
A diagram representing a process or workflow using standardized shapes and connecting arrows.
Also known as: Flow Chart, Process Flow Diagram, Flow Diagram
Category: Techniques
Tags: visualization, processes, documentation, thinking, tools
Explanation
A Flowchart is a visual diagram that represents a process, workflow, or algorithm using standardized shapes connected by arrows. Each shape has a specific meaning: rectangles for processes, diamonds for decisions, ovals for start/end points, and parallelograms for input/output.
**Common Uses**:
- **Process documentation**: Mapping business or technical processes
- **Algorithm design**: Planning program logic before coding
- **Decision trees**: Visualizing decision paths and outcomes
- **Troubleshooting guides**: Step-by-step diagnostic procedures
- **Workflow optimization**: Identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies
**Standard Flowchart Symbols**:
- **Oval/Terminator**: Start or end of process
- **Rectangle/Process**: Action or operation step
- **Diamond/Decision**: Yes/no or branching question
- **Parallelogram**: Input or output
- **Arrow/Flow line**: Direction of process flow
**Benefits**:
- Makes complex processes understandable at a glance
- Identifies redundancies and inefficiencies
- Provides common language for discussing processes
- Supports process improvement and standardization
- Aids in training and onboarding
**In PKM Context**:
Flowcharts help document personal workflows, decision-making frameworks, and recurring processes. Creating a flowchart for how you process information or make decisions can reveal opportunities for improvement and automation.
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