Procedures Manual: Process or Narrative?

[Falco]

We are also using a tiered approach not a "one size fits all" We use a large process flow to describe and visualize complexity for the overall project delivery and sub flow charts for the major portions of operations. Procedures and even further detailed instructions provide direct guidance where the lack of guidance has demonstrated undesirable results. Let the guidance seek a level based on expectations vs. results. One of the biggest realizations over the past projects I have experienced is that many times groups within the process will have their game together however the various groups do not understand what the other is doing (left hand/right hand). The flow charts seem to let the entire org see the big picture and in turn the teams work together better (input/output).

 

[somashekar]

Hi All

I just returned to work after an Internal Auditing training course (it was actually quite good) but quite often the trainer made reference to the process approach to the procedures manual and at one point called us old-fashioned because we use a narrative approach (I currently have the purpose-scope-responsibilities-procedure format)

The flowchart/process idea seemed to make a lot of sense to me and I'm sitting here contemplating jumping into changing my manual over to flowcharts (+notes)

Does anyone have an opinion on whether this is a good idea/bad idea - how best to do it etc?

Thanks for any advice

Your free will .. , however what is good and comfortable within the users is of importance. Most of us would have made the first procedures the narrative as said by you. As a next step to improve upon this (and cut some words to make the narration short and effective) and coming in line with the input >> activity >> output concept, you can think of a three column procedure.
First will have all the inputs that are necessary including the parts any direct consumables, tools or PPE that are used , single point lessons references etc etc ...
Second will have the activity described in crisp and clear bullet points with pictures and cautions as necessary ...
Third will have the output that comes out of the activity including references to any records creation, NC parts identification if any and off course the finished part after the activity.
This sequence can go on logically with output of one stage getting as input to the next stage., and so on.
Try it offline and get the feel of your people. If all are impressed put it online in a phased manner.
Less narration >> more comfort .... make procedure a pleasure... aka Indian railways
Less Luggage >> more comfort .... make travel a pleasure ......