Flowchart: Definition, Functions, Types, and Symbols

A flowchart is a graphical representation used to visually illustrate the steps and decisions involved in a process or workflow.

It is such a beneficial tool for understanding how systems and processes function, enabling individuals to grasp complex operations without the need to delve into lengthy lines of code or extensive written explanations.

These visual aids are composed of a variety of specialized symbols, each serving a unique purpose in breaking down and mapping out the various elements of a process. 

By using these flowchart symbols, you can simplify complex procedures and facilitate better communication among team members or stakeholders.

It is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of what flowcharts are, their functions, and their symbols. Let’s explore these aspects in greater detail in the following guide.

What is Flowchart?

A flowchart is a visual representation of a sequence of steps or processes expressed in the form of symbols.

These symbols are used to depict the flow of work or the sequence of actions within a system, a business process, an algorithm, or even a computer program.

It also serves as an effective communication tool for illustrating how a system operates and facilitating the analysis of complex components.

With the presence of these symbols, even intricate processes become more accessible to people of all backgrounds, including those who are not well-versed in the subject matter.

There are specialized symbols that represent various types of actions or decisions as these symbols are used to illustrate the steps or stages involved in a process.

However, before delving into the types of symbols used in flowcharts, let's explore the functions of this particular diagram.

Flowchart Functions

You also need to comprehend the functions of this diagram, particularly in depicting workflow or processes. Read the complete explanation below.

1. Providing Clear Information

Transforming information into this kind of chart can help deliver clear information about a process through simple and step-by-step visualization.

You can organize information within some symbols, arrows, action commands, or paths to provide a comprehensive understanding of how a system works.

2. Assisting in Identifying Specific Steps

One significant advantage is its ability to break down complex processes into specific steps. This breakdown is valuable for understanding each specific step within the process. 

Consequently, complex procedures can be dissected and identified in a systematic manner. By doing so, you can follow the workflow of a process linearly and enhance efficiency during project execution.

3. Decomposing Complex Processes

Complex processes are often challenging to explain through text alone. To break down such processes, you can utilize a flowchart.

The visual representation within the chart supports the creation of a structured workflow within a process. This enables each step to become more straightforward, predictable, and open to further optimization.

It is essential to remember that simplifying a complex process is crucial for achieving and enhancing efficient collaboration among teams.

4. Rapid Idea Communication

This type of chart also serves as a tool to swiftly communicate processes, steps, and directions solely through visual means. Despite this, they have the capability to communicate ideas and provide a macro-level understanding of a concept with ease.

5. Enhanced Efficiency

Since it visualizes workflows, this chart can help identify areas in need of improvement or optimization. This approach can enhance the efficiency of a process and reduce work time for unnecessary steps.

6. Creating Clear Documentation

This type of chart represents a form of visual documentation that can store information related to a system or process. When information is clearly documented, it can be distributed and communicated to relevant parties.

7. Aiding Problem-Solving

In addition to being known as a communication and documentation tool, this chart also serves well in aiding problem-solving.

It is believed to be capable of breaking down sequences of problems into smaller parts, allowing you to identify critical points or errors within those sections. As a result, you can analyze and solve problems systematically.

8. Facilitating Automation

In some cases, flowcharts can be used to facilitate the automation of tasks in a program.

In order to achieve this, the visual diagram representation maps out linear steps using commands. In this way, developers can plan and understand the functioning of a program in a more systematic manner.

Types of Flowcharts

Beyond simply knowing “what is flowchart”, let's dive into the exciting realm of various flowchart types that are widely employed, such as:

1. Document 

Ever wondered how documents flow within a complex system or process? This type, also known as a paperwork flowchart, unveils the secrets of document movement. 

Think of it as a visual guide to understanding how information circulates, from the moment it's received, all the way through processing, and finally, distribution.

2. Program 

Have you ever wondered how a computer program follows its instructions? Program flowcharts break down the algorithms and steps that a computer program must execute. 

They come in two flavors: detailed computer programs for the nitty-gritty details and program logic for the big picture. These charts are like roadmaps for developers, ensuring that code is planned and executed in a clear, systematic manner.

3. Process 

Processes are the building blocks of operations in various domains. If you've ever wanted to visualize the workflow and sequence of actions within a system, then this type is your go-to tool, as it simplifies complex procedures into a sequence of easy-to-follow steps.

4. System 

Imagine peeking behind the curtains of a complex system. This type provides a detailed look at every procedure within the system. It's like a map of data, information, and actions flowing through an intricate network of interconnected processes and components.

5. Schematic 

For those curious about the inner workings of physical or logical components in a system, the schematic type is your visual guide. 

This type is widely used in industries, engineering, and electronics, since it reveals the physical structure and interconnections of each component, almost like an X-ray for systems.

Flowchart Symbols

Now, let's delve into the world of flowchart symbols! Understanding these symbols is crucial as they represent actions, decisions, or elements within a process. Here's a comprehensive explanation of these symbols:

1. Process

This symbol is used to represent a specific action or step within a process. Typically, these processes are visually portrayed as rectangular shapes, providing a clear and defined boundary within the chart. They act as building blocks, breaking down complex systems or procedures into manageable, comprehensible components.

2. Terminator

The terminator symbol takes the form of a rectangular shape with rounded corners. It signifies the start or end point of a process flow. When it is used at the beginning, it marks the starting point, and at the end, it indicates the completion of a process.

3. Decision

The decision symbol is employed to illustrate branching points within a process, where a decision must be made based on certain conditions. By using this symbol, you can create two possible outcomes: "yes" or "no." Decision symbols are typically represented as diamonds.

4. Input/Output

When you want to visualize data input or output within a process flow, you'll use the input/output symbol. This symbol represents interactions with data entering or exiting a process. Flowchart examples in input/output symbol shapes often include parallelograms.

5. Predefine Process

Next, familiarize yourself with the chart featuring the predefined process symbol. It signifies steps that have been meticulously determined and designed beforehand. These steps are not open to interpretation or modification during the execution of the process.

6. Document

The document symbol is used to represent documents or reports within a process. Through this symbol, you can depict data, documents, or records related to the system or process being described.

7. Preparation

The Preparation symbol is typically used to show preparatory or initiation steps before the workflow or process begins. 

This preparation can include workflow setup, initial data collection, or other tasks needed before the next steps are executed.

8. Manual Preparation

This symbol indicates steps that must be performed manually by a user or operator. These steps usually involve actions that cannot be automated and require direct human interaction.

9. On-Page Reference

On-page reference symbols are used to connect parts of a flowchart on the same page. With these symbols, you can avoid repeating instructions and refer back to the steps defined on the same page.

10. Off-Page Reference

This symbol serves as the counterpart to on-page references. This symbol is used to connect sections of a flowchart on different pages. 

The off-page reference symbol is useful when a workflow or process extends beyond one page and requires referencing steps defined on other pages. 

11. Display

The display symbol functions to indicate information that will be presented to the user. This information can be messages, data, or other essential information to guide the user on status or required actions.

12. Flow

This symbol is also known as the connecting line since it represents the flow of steps or actions within a process. 

The presence of flow symbols provides concrete instructions to be executed, such as data processing, decision-making, or other steps that form the workflow.

That concludes the explanation of “what is flowchart”, its functions, types, and symbols.

In general, flowcharts are crucial tools for planning, visualizing, and comprehending workflows, whether in software development, programming, business, or even SEO.

Through this kind of chart, you can create a structured and well-planned SEO strategy to attain high-quality organic traffic, visibility in search engine results pages (SERPs), and customer trust.

If you encounter challenges in search engine optimization, you can utilize SEO services by cmlabs to receive assistance from reliable and experienced SEO specialists who can help drive business growth.