The 'Best of the Best' Process Map Format

[Marc]

In Reply to Parent Post by ASQ_Web_Offerings_CN

I second the MS Visio, it is essential for our workgroup process map, and the site maps that I do on the web development side here at ASQ. Our IT also uses visio to map out our network, and data transfer process. It is a very flexible platform, and widely used for charts, diagrams, and process flow.

Have you tried SmartDraw? It does all this and more at a cheaper cost.
http://www.smartdraw.com/resources/c.../smartdraw.htm

[Marc]

In Reply to Parent Post by qualitygoddess

I hope you will share the final version!

I will but it will be a few weeks. I'm in the middle of some APQP training and will be getting back to the corporate documentation soon.

[ASQ_Web_Offerings_CN]

In Reply to Parent Post by Marc

Have you tried SmartDraw? It does all this and more at a cheaper cost.

I've heard of it, but I haven't used it. Have to look into it.

Visio has been the industry standard I've used for the past five years. One of those things that sticks with you through a career. However, when cost is an issue, I'll make MS paint, or a similiar program work in my favor. I like to look at computers and software as a game I just have to conquer. Part of my Gen-X upbringing at age 30.

[jewels]

For our purposes, we do not currently have elaborate flow charts of processes. I tried the Smart Draw free trial and it works great, but for what I need, WORD works fine. And everyone in our company has WORD. This way--the files I forward to others for review can be worked on in their hands using WORD instead of each of us getting another program that will not be used enough to pay it's price. At least not yet.

[ASQ_Web_Offerings_CN]

In Reply to Parent Post by jewels

For our purposes, we do not currently have elaborate flow charts of processes. I tried the Smart Draw free trial and it works great, but for what I need, WORD works fine. And everyone in our company has WORD. This way--the files I forward to others for review can be worked on in their hands using WORD instead of each of us getting another program that will not be used enough to pay it's price. At least not yet.

Very important point of certain software suites. Depending upon your situation, cross-departments, inter-office, and useability is key in choosing a software the suits your needs.

[Greg B]

In Reply to Parent Post by Marc

Thanks for the replies so far. I do like Caterpillar's format. I've been playing with the attached (very basic idea so far) but I'm still looking for ideas.

Marc,
I know I have posted many, many flow charts on the cove but I just saw the template that you posted and had to comment on it. IMO these types of flow charts are the simplest and often the most likely to be used, as operators understand them. I try to keep my Flow charts to one page, have the least amount of Decisions and ensure that responsibilities (left margin) and key check points (right Margin) are indicated. Coupled with training flow charts are a very effective tool.
Here is my latest procedure for 'New Product Specifications'. This style is used for the lowest level procedure or work instructions.

[Marc]

Good one, Greg. I like it a lot.

[Cari Spears]

In Reply to Parent Post by Greg B

...I know I have posted many, many flow charts on the cove...

Please, keep 'em comin'! Yours are some of my favorites.