FLOWCHART

Flowchart / Flow Diagram : 

A diagram that uses graphic symbols to depict the nature and flow of the steps in a process



Uses of a Flowchart:
• To specify the method of solving a problem.
• To plan the sequence of a computer program.
• Communicate ideas, solutions. 




Flowchart Symbols :
Symbols commonly used in Flowcharts have specific meanings and are connected by arrows indicating the flow from one step to another

 : indicate both the starting point and the ending point of the process steps

: represents an individual step or activity in the process

:  shows a decision point, such as yes/no or go/no-go. Each path emerging from the diamond must be labeled with one of the possible answers

 :  indicates that a particular step is connected to another page or part of the Flowchart. A letter placed in the circle clarifies the continuation





Levels of Flowchart :

Macro level : A "big picture," or macro-level, view of the process may be enough for their purposes. Generally, a macro-level Flowchart has fewer than six steps. 

Mini level : It focuses on only a part of the macro-level Flowchart. 

Micro level : The micro-level, or ground-level, view provides a very detailed picture of a specific portion of the process by documenting every action and decision. It is commonly used to chart how a particular task is performed.





Types of Flowchart :


Linear Flowchart : A diagram that displays the sequence of work steps that make up a process. 

Deployment Flowchart : Shows the actual process flow and identifies the people or groups involved at each step

Opportunity Flowchart : A  variation of the basic linear type differentiates process activities that add value from those that add cost only