A receptionist wants to use a flowchart to diagram how she routes incoming calls to the proper departments in ABC Company. She brainstorms each step and the decisions needed during the process. She writes down all of the steps, in order, for the whole process.Next, the receptionist maps out the steps in a flowchart format. She coordinates various shaped enclosures and arrow connectors for the
. start, answering a call and the end of her interaction with the caller. She labels the various parts of the routing process. For example, certain tasks are outlined: asking for the caller's name and company identity; and explaining which calls are transferred to the sales, billing and shipping departments. The receptionist concludes her project by making sure that all representations are accurate and the most efficient process for routing calls is portrayed.A flowchart is a set of simple, easy-to-understand schematic symbols that show how the steps in a series of actions fit together. A picture is formed to document how a job is performed or to communicate how a process works. Flowcharts provide a system of mapping that helps to make steps and the whole process clear for participants. They serve as workable diagrams for examining the movement of actions or parts of a system to optimize processes and make improvements. The picture can alleviate aspects of a situation that seem overwhelming.There are three primary symbols used for building uncomplicated flowcharts. Elongated circles represent the start or end of a procedure. Rectangles enclose actions or explanations. Diamonds display decisions. More complex flowcharts can use symbols, such as input/out parallelograms and small circles.Summarizing the steps, a process of action or method for solving a problem is defined and analyzed first. Considerations should include decisions and approvals for each step. Second, a picture of the process is constructed for further analysis or discussion. Each step is explained and labeled for clarity and continuity. Third, the picture of the whole process, with appropriate symbols and arrows to connect the symbols, is approved and/or each step is improved.More reference links: http://www.rff.com/flowchart_shapes.htm http://elsmar.com/pdf_files/Flow_Charts_for_2000.pdf
