Get Started with Process Mapping

Learning Objectives

After completing this unit, you’ll be able to:

• Define process mapping.
• Describe the purpose of process mapping.
• Describe the benefits of process mapping.

What Is Process Mapping?

Process mapping creates visual representations of business processes. It includes any activity that defines what a business does, who is responsible for what, how standard business processes are completed, and how success is measured. The main purpose of business process mapping is to show the relationship between the steps and the inputs of a business to establish a clear, consistent, and concise result. It takes a specific objective and compares that objective to the organization’s overall objectives to make sure their processes are aligned with the company’s values and capabilities.

A clear and detailed business process map shows whether or not improvements can be made to a business’s current process and helps them be more efficient.

The Purpose of Business Process Mapping

There are a number of reasons companies need a new or improved business process map, but most commonly they are used to foster a formal approach to quality management. As a business analyst, process mapping is a crucial tool you can use for a range of project types—from improvement projects to more intensive reengineering projects. Process maps help you look at existing workflows in a new way and help you keep your focus on strategic planning. 

Creating a Process Map

When you map a process, diagram it in a way that can be understood by anyone in any business unit. The scope of business process mapping shows end-to-end activities, inputs such as materials or labor, and the link between each step. A process map can cut across multiple departments, and can even include external partners. 

The end goal for any company using process mapping is to be more effective. If all of the company objectives are measured equally and compared across business groups, you are able to optimize any company’s operations. 

Benefits of Process Mapping

Process mapping is a beneficial tool for you and your company. The two most important or most common uses of process mapping are to: 

• Make understanding and communicating the process much easier among teams, stakeholders, or customers.
• Help identify flaws in the process and where improvements should be made.

Process mapping also helps reduce costs, improve team performance, and increase employee satisfaction. 

In the next unit, you learn how to speak the language of process mapping.