A flowchart is a planning tool that uses graphics or symbols to illustrate the steps of a In a business organization "flowcharting, also known as logic or flow diagramming, is an invaluable tool for understanding the inner workings of, and relation- ships between, business processes." (Harrington, 86) There are four basic flowcharts, each having a specific function and they include: block diagrams, ANSI standard flowchart, functional flowchart, and geographical flowchart. Understanding and applying flowcharts normally will improve the quality of a company's product or service. The most common type of flowchart is a block diagram, also known as a block flow diagram. "Block diagrams provide a quick overview of a process, not a detailed analysis.Normally they are prepared first to document the magnitude of the process; then anothertype of flowchart is used to analyze the process in detail." (Harrington, 92) Block diagrams use elongated circles to depict the beginning and the end of a flowchart, and all activities in between are represented by rectangles with lines and arrows connecting each activity. Of the four basic flowcharts, the block diagram is the easiest to understand and use. As previously stated, a block diagram is a flowchart that is used as a starting point.Applying the ANSI standard flowchart makes a perfect follow-up flowchart that providesgreater detail using additional symbols. A rectangle is used to indicate a change of operation. A diamond is used to indicate that a decision is to be made. The movement or transportation of property is indicated by a fat arrow while a slim arrow denotes the 1movement from one process to another. An elongated circle depicts the beginning and the end of a process. The amount of detail involved with the ANSI standard flowchart accurately ...
