Themes

What is a flowchart?

We explain that it is a flow chart and what is the process to prepare it. Also, how is the symbology employed and some examples.

  1. What is a flowchart?

The flowchart or activity diagram  is a way to graphically represent an algorithm or process of some nature, through a series of structured and linked steps that allow its revision as a whole.

The graphical representation of these processes uses, in the flowcharts, a certain series of geometric figures that represent each specific step of the process being evaluated. These forms defined in advance are connected to each other through arrows and lines that mark the direction of the flow and establish the path of the process, as if it were a map.

There are four types of flowchart based on the mode of their representation:

  • Horizontal . It goes from right to left, according to the order of reading.
  • Vertical . It goes from top to bottom, like an ordered list.
  • Panorámico . They allow you to see the entire process on a single sheet, using the vertical and horizontal model.
  • Architectural . It represents a work itinerary or a work area.

Flowcharts are a mechanism for controlling and describing processes, which allow for greater organization, evaluation or rethinking of sequences of activities and processes of different kinds, since they are versatile and simple. They are often used in disciplines such as programming , computer science , economics , finance, industrial processes and even cognitive psychology.

  1. Process of a flowchart

In this area, we talk about processes to refer to a specific sequence of activities , that is, the steps to be taken within the flowchart. For example, in computer science, the processes are sequences initiated either by triggers programmed within the system, or by interventions of the system user . Each one has an address, a purpose and a series of steps that it covers.

  1. Symbology of a flowchart

The main conventional symbols used in the flowcharts are the following:

flowchart symbology

  1. Flowchart Examples

  • Flowchart for buying shoes:

flowchart - shoe purchase

  • Flowchart to play a DVD

flow chart - dvd

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Back to top button