There are common symbols used to depict process flows, including items such as actions, decisions and delays. Just as with any other diagram, process maps use a series of defined symbols such as ovals, rectangles, diamonds and arrows to depict steps within an activity and how those steps flow to meet an end product or goal.
They also ensure that your team is on the same page and can be used to improve performance and productivity. They can help to identify key areas that may be ideal for implementing automation. Process maps can be used to gain a better understanding of your current processes and improve efficiency by identifying bottlenecks or duplication within your workflow and working to streamline the process. These maps are sometimes referred to as flowcharts or diagrams, and they really break down the who, what, when, where and how of your processes to better answer the why. A process map is a tool that can be used to visually describe the flow of work within an office by outlining the individual steps within a process, the task owners and even the timelines.