Process mapping
Contents
Definition
Process mapping is The process of organizing and representing knowledge using process maps.
Summary
One paragraph.
Description
Mapping and its outputs
Documenting the main processes of an organisation is one of the requirements for a management system [2]. Process mapping is a tool for documenting processes and the knowledge embedded in them in the form of a process map.
The main purpose of process mapping is to assist organizations in becoming more efficient [1]. A clear process map helps an organisation to understand its own work better and enables auditing processes e.g. by the regulatory body. Process mapping helps to measure and compare the objective of a process alongside the entire organization's objectives to make sure that all processes are aligned [1]. Thus, process mapping may also be used as a tool for continuous improvement [3].
Process mapping
Process mapping includes [1,2]:
- defining what an organization does,
- who is responsible,
- inputs and outputs,
- requirements for the process,
- the sequence and interactions of the processes,
- process measurements and
- a definition of a successful completion of the process.
Process maps can be constructed directly with experts to help model process knowledge. As with concept mapping, the input for process models can be generated via interviews with experts. Alternatively group techniques can be used to help provide the basis for the process model.
References
[1] Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Business_process_mapping
[2] IAEA, Safety Requirements, GS-R-3, http://www-pub.iaea.org/MTCD/publications/PDF/Pub1252_web.pdf
[3] IAEA, Management of continual improvement for facilities and activities: A structured approach, http://www-pub.iaea.org/MTCD/publications/PDF/te_1491_web.pdf
