Designing_a_Flowchart_for_a_Process

Operations Management/ OPS/ 571 Margraret Stocker, Instructor April 19, 2010 Wk 1: Design a flowchart for a process On a day to day basis, everyone has a process that is used to get through the day. Some tasks may be time consuming, while others may not. In this paper, I will select a process that I perform daily, but would like to spend less time doing. Using a flow chart design, I will examine my daily task of driving to work. The flow chart will be designed using an appropriate tool. In this paper, the flow chart will provide comments on the factors that affect the design process. “Flow charts are easy-to-understand diagrams showing how steps in a process fit together.” (Mind Tools, Ltd) This paper will also identify at least one metric that is needed to measure the process chosen. The process that I have chosen to perform a flow chart on is my commute to work on a daily basis. As the process begins, I comfortably sit in my vehicle, securely fastening my seatbelt and cautiously checking my gears. Next, I insert the key and to start the engine. When the traffic is clear, I press the accelerator, driving to my place of employment. After arriving at work, I find a parking spot and come to a complete stop. The factors affecting the time it take me to arrive at work are critical parts of the flow chart. Beginning with the safety precautions, the traffic, gears, and ending with the location of the workplace; some of the factors that affect the process design are explained. The most appropriate measured to be used in this flow chart design is cycle time. According to the text, cycle time is the average time between completion of units. (Chase, Jacobs, & Aquilano, 2006) “The act of mapping a process out in flow chart format helps you clarify your understanding of the process, and helps you think about where the process can be improved” (Mind Tools, Ltd). In this paper, I have illustrated my daily commute to work in flow chart design; identifying time as the most appropriate measure to be used. References Chase, R.B., Jacob, F.R., & Aquilano, N.J. (2006). Operations management for competitive advantage. (11th ed). New York: McGraw Hill/Irwin. Mind Tools Ltd. Retrieved from http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newTMC_97.htm on April 19, 2010.