Process Mapping and Evaluation

In this lesson, you’re expected to learn:
– the basics of a business process and process mapping
– process performance indicators
– how to evaluate and improve a process

Process mapping requires describing processes in terms of how the activities within the process relate to each other.

There are many techniques that can be used for process mapping. However, all these techniques serve the similar purposes of identifying the different types of activity that take place during the process and show the flow of materials, people, and/or information through the process.

How a Customized Process differs from a Standard Process

Let’s use an example to distinguish between the two processes.

In the example below, we can see two different sandwich-making processes: standard and customized.

Enlarged version: http://bit.ly/2pWXorQ

Customized vs. Standard Process

• In the standard process, sandwiches are made in a central kitchen, then moved and stored at the outlets (make-to-stock). Sandwiches are sold to customers as they are.
• In the customized sandwich process, the customers can specify the type of bread and combine it with different fillings (assembly-to-order).

Here are some of the basic process performance indicators that can be used to measure, set targets, and improve process efficiency:

Enlarged version: http://bit.ly/2q6fB2r

Evaluating a Process

• When evaluating a process you should first try to identify the activities that add value to products and services, such as a surgical intervention in a hospital operation.

• The remaining activities are non-value-adding; however, some are still indispensable, such as documenting the surgical interventions in the hospital.

• Non-value-adding and dispensable activities should be the first focus of treatment (we are going to see how to deal with them in the upcoming lessons).

Enlarged version: http://bit.ly/2ps3f8v

As you walk through a process map, you should look for improvement opportunities and for reducing its cycle time.

Enlarged version: http://bit.ly/2pVPSdR