A process map can be done in a variety of ways, ranging from drawing on paper to having a digital system for the purpose.
The process map is a tool used to visualize and analyze an organization's processes - a diagram that identifies and explains the different elements that make up a process and how they are interconnected
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon to lump different systems together, thinking that the most important thing is that the process maps are clickable. A not too unusual thought is to think of a clickable PowerPoint slide or similar. This is not wrong, but the importance and function of process maps has evolved, the old way of looking at it simply does not take advantage of the possibilities and effects that exist in a modern system.
Modern process maps are not only maps that show what something looks like and can be clicked on, they also take advantage of the process structure that you have actually already built up when you draw up the process map. Without extra effort, all of a sudden there are opportunities to use this data and make smart connections in other tools.
As an example, we can take variances. Imagine that when anomalies are detected, you can link these directly to a process or sub-process. This is a simple action that provides incredible power as you immediately get a tool where you can both identify and solve the problems. And you can solve them faster but also more efficiently. Not only that - you also all of a sudden have an automatic assignment of responsibility (in this case, the process-owners).
With tools to easily identify where problems occur and where they are detected, you can quickly identify both cause and effect from a helicopter perspective. You can also talk to the right people directly, without having to first sort out where things are happening and who is responsible. This speed can be very important to give you the greatest possible chance of salvaging the situation.
The link from deviations is just one example, albeit an important one, in the same way you do with other tools that you use for e.g. risk management, improvement proposals, customer requirements management - to name a few examples.
Modern process maps are not just about showing what processes look like. They have the role of the backbone that connects the actual processes with other important tools and data, providing you with fast and efficient decision support. It helps to provide the best conditions for developing your business.
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Another thing to be aware of is that modern process maps are part of a larger context in which it is also possible to work effectively with management and strategy. Both within and outside the framework of various ISO standards.
