Mapping technique, audience and level of detail
Key Takeaway
Before you draw a process map, decide its purpose, audience and scope. Then pick a technique to match: a SIPOC map or an agreed input and outcome to settle scope, a value stream map to measure steps and find waste, and UPN's drill-down diagrams to control the level of detail.
Process mapping turns a business process into a visual diagram from start to finish. The diagram shows the steps, who does them, and the inputs and outcomes. In discovery, a consultant uses process mapping to understand how the customer works today, find pain points and draw out requirements. Before drawing anything, decide the map's purpose, its audience and how much detail it needs. Then pick a technique that fits.
What a process map shows
A process map is a visual representation of a business process. The map shows what the business does, who is responsible for what, how processes are completed and how success is measured.
Process mapping has two most common uses. The first is making a process easier to understand and communicate among teams, stakeholders or customers. The second is finding flaws and places to improve.