What is a Flowchart and what is it used for?
A Flowchart is a graphical representation of individual process steps in their exact chronological order. Instead of reading lengthy procedures and text manuals, people can look at a simple map of nodes (steps) and arrows (sequential actions). Flowcharts also use internationally recognized shapes: an oval for start/end, a rectangle for a standard process step, and a diamond for decisions (e.g., YES/NO inspection).
Why is it used in a Quality Management System (QMS)?
- Standardization (SOP): Acts as a visual work instruction so operators and engineers perform tasks exactly the same way every time.
- Waste Identification: When mapping a process, you immediately spot unnecessary steps, dead ends, or excessive product movement between departments.
- Audits (ISO 9001 / IATF 16949): Our editor supports Swimlanes. The diagram automatically divides into columns based on responsible roles (e.g., Production, Quality, Logistics). An auditor can instantly see where responsibilities hand off.