Writing Policies and Procedures

We get asked often about how, when, and why people should use flow charts when writing policies and procedures and developing corporate training manuals and guides. 

The Policy and Procedure Pros are firmly divided on the overall effectiveness of flow charts as a way to communicate how to perform procedures and work instructions and reduce errors. Some see significant benefits in flow charts. Some see significant drawbacks. We decided to survey the current scholarly research on the topic to settle the debate and found that both sides are right. 

According to current research, the question “To flow chart, or not to flow chart,” is an “it depends” proposition. Some times it helps. Some times it doesn’t.

The following 2 separate Posts look individually at the Benefits and the Problems and Weaknesses of using flow charts for communicating "how to" information in company Procedures Manuals designed to improve employee and operations performance and support corporate training efforts.