Introduction
A Flowchart is a type of diagram that represents the sequence of steps or actions required to solve a problem or achieve an objective. These diagrams utilize a set of standardized symbols to depict different types of actions or steps, making them a versatile tool in various fields such as Information Technology, Management, and Science.
Historical Context
The concept of flowcharting can be traced back to the early 20th century when industrial engineers like Frank and Lillian Gilbreth utilized flow diagrams to model workflows. Flowcharts gained widespread popularity with the rise of computer science in the 1960s and 1970s as a method to document algorithms and process flows in computer programming.
Types/Categories of Flowcharts
Flowcharts can be categorized into several types, each serving different purposes:
- Process Flowchart: Documents the flow of processes within an organization.
- Swimlane Diagram: Highlights different stakeholders or departments and their responsibilities.
- Data Flow Diagram (DFD): Focuses on the flow of data between processes.
- Workflow Diagram: Represents the sequence of tasks in a workflow.
- System Flowchart: Illustrates the flow of data within a system.
Key Events
- 1921: Frank and Lillian Gilbreth first present the concept of “Process Charts.”
- 1947: The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) adopts a standardized set of flowchart symbols.
- 1960s-1970s: Flowcharts become fundamental in documenting computer algorithms.
Detailed Explanation
Common Symbols
The most commonly used symbols in flowcharts include:
- Process Box: Represents a process or action step.
graph LR A[Process] --> B[Next Step] - Decision Lozenge: Represents a point where a decision must be made.
graph TD A[Decision] -->|Yes| B[Action1] A -->|No| C[Action2] - Start/End Oval: Denotes the start or end of the flowchart.
graph LR A(Start) --> B[Action]
Importance
Flowcharts play a critical role in simplifying complex processes by providing a visual representation. They aid in:
- Problem Solving: Breaking down processes into manageable steps.
- Documentation: Creating clear and concise documentation.
- Communication: Facilitating understanding among stakeholders.
- Analysis: Identifying inefficiencies and areas for improvement.
Applicability
Flowcharts are widely applicable across various domains, including:
- Information Technology: For documenting algorithms and system processes.
- Management: In process improvement and business process re-engineering.
- Engineering: For workflow analysis and process optimization.
Examples
Below is a basic example of a simple process flowchart:
graph LR
Start([Start]) --> Process1[Take Input]
Process1 --> Decision1{Is Input Valid?}
Decision1 -->|Yes| Process2[Process Data]
Decision1 -->|No| Process3[Error Message]
Process2 --> End([End])
Process3 --> End
Considerations
When designing a flowchart:
- Keep it Simple: Avoid over-complicating the diagram.
- Standardize Symbols: Use universally recognized symbols for clarity.
- Review and Validate: Ensure accuracy by reviewing the flowchart with stakeholders.
Related Terms
- Algorithm: A step-by-step procedure for solving a problem.
- Process Mapping: The activity of defining the steps in a process.
- Workflow: A series of tasks that are necessary to complete a process.
Comparisons
- Flowchart vs. Algorithm: While a flowchart is a visual representation, an algorithm is a textual description.
- Flowchart vs. Data Flow Diagram: Flowcharts focus on process steps, while DFDs focus on data movement.
Interesting Facts
- The first flowcharts were hand-drawn.
- Flowchart symbols have remained largely unchanged since their standardization in the 1940s.
Inspirational Stories
Steve Jobs often used flowcharts to illustrate processes at Apple, helping to streamline product development.
Famous Quotes
“Draw a flowchart and see if you can make the process as simple as possible.” – Bill Gates
Proverbs and Clichés
- “A picture is worth a thousand words.”
- “Seeing is believing.”
Jargon and Slang
- Swimlane: Partitioned areas in a flowchart to identify different actors.
- Spaghetti Code: Poorly structured flowchart, difficult to follow.
FAQs
Q1: What software can I use to create flowcharts?
Q2: Are there any international standards for flowcharts?
References
- Gilbreth, Frank B. & Gilbreth, Lillian M. “Applied Motion Study.”
- ISO 5807:1985, Information processing — Documentation symbols and conventions for data, program and system flowcharts.
- “Flowchart History,” American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
Summary
Flowcharts are invaluable tools for representing the sequence of steps needed to solve a problem. By using standardized symbols and simplifying complex processes, they facilitate communication, documentation, and analysis across various fields. Their enduring relevance underscores their importance in both historical and modern contexts.
