Process Mapping
Document activities with owners, inputs, outputs, time and value contribution to expose unclear responsibilities, delays and non-value-added work.
Purpose and method
Document process steps with inputs, outputs, responsibilities, times and improvement observations.
When to use it
Use detailed process mapping when the current state must be understood before redesign or standardization.
Core principle
Process mapping adds operational detail to sequence: who performs each step, what enters and leaves it, how long it takes and why it exists.
What the interactive module provides
- Current-state process map
- Step data and ownership
- Improvement opportunities
- detailed process map, responsibility gaps, time profile and improvement opportunities
Professional verification: The module supports learning, analysis and documentation. Verify results against actual process conditions, internal standards, safety requirements and competent professional judgement before implementation.
01
Recommended workflow
Document activities with owners, inputs, outputs, time and value contribution to expose unclear responsibilities, delays and non-value-added work.
- 1
Agree the customer and process boundaries
- 2
List actual activities in sequence
- 3
Attach owner, input, output and timing to each step
- 4
Classify value-added, necessary and waste activity
- 5
Validate facts and select redesign opportunities
02
Practical example
A maintenance request passes through four roles. Mapping shows that the same information is entered three times and that no owner exists between approval and planning.
Calculation or verification principle
Useful indicators include process cycle efficiency = value-added time ÷ total lead time × 100%, plus hand-offs, queues and first-pass yield.
Required inputs → Expected outputs
- Required inputs
- scope, steps, roles, inputs, outputs, processing time, waiting time and value classification
- Expected outputs
- detailed process map, responsibility gaps, time profile and improvement opportunities
03
Common mistakes to avoid
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Choosing a scope too broad for one map
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Recording estimates as measured facts
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Ignoring information and approval flows
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Optimising one step while worsening the whole process
04
Frequently asked questions
What data do I need to use this tool?
Prepare scope, steps, roles, inputs, outputs, processing time, waiting time and value classification.
What result does the module produce?
The module produces detailed process map, responsibility gaps, time profile and improvement opportunities.
Can I implement the result without further review?
No. Treat the output as a structured engineering and improvement aid. Verify source data, assumptions, safety, quality, legal requirements and local process conditions with competent responsible people before implementation.
LEAN Toolbox
Open interactive tool →Process Mapping
Document activities with owners, inputs, outputs, time and value contribution to expose unclear responsibilities, delays and non-value-added work.