A reference source for new and existing employees - saves time and duplication of effort
When workloads are clearly identified, the individuals know what is expected of them and their colleagues as a team and can identify potential risks more easily
Provides a check on the efficiency of the processes, when they're being mapped - drives out waste
The visual representation highlights any discepancies in the process, any 'cul-de-sacs' or 'dead ends' - drives out more waste
Highlights if every part of the process has an input and an output - if it doesn't, why is it being done?
Helps Governance - documented proof that processes have been developed and referenced.
Retains the knowledge in the organisation when somebody leaves - so tasks that always happened don't suddenly stop when a staff member leaves.
Provides a reference framework, so everyone in the process knows what their role is and where they fit in to the whole - helps inclusiveness and also allows someone in one part of the process (perhaps in another department) to question why something else is being done, if it doesn't look right to them.
People know what's expected of them - an extension of their Job Description
Provides a reference point for external auditors, simplifying and speeding up the auditing process.
Management can review what's happening against the process diagram when staff are stressed or deliverables are delayed.
There may be unidentified 'virtual' processes that could be uncovered and made more efficient through reviewing and mapping.
HR Inductions and Personal Development Plans - How Process Mapping can help
Inductions for new starters are often arranged on an 'ad-hoc' basis. People who are key to the individual's new role will be included, as will various members of staff who are responsible for general companywide processes - HR, Health & Safety, etc. The new employee will meet many people during his or her first few days and their head will probably be spinning with all of the new knowledge that they've learned by the time they arrive at 5pm on their first Friday.
Process Mapping can assist in the induction process. A generic induction process can be mapped out for all employees, with associated documents attached at the relevant points. Subsets of the process can also be set up for each department or team, so that those organising inductions have a reference to follow. Equally importantly, the new employee has a reference which he or she can refer back to whenever they feel the need.
HR Managers can be assured that all new employees have followed the same approved induction programme and that everything has been covered.
This can be extended to Personal Development Plans (PDPs). Every employee should have a PDP and whilst the detail of these will be specific to the individual, the approach across the company should be common. Mapping the PDP Process ensures that every employee follows the same path, uses the correct documentation and maximises their opportunities to develop themselves for the benefit of both the company and themselves.
If you would like to find out more about our cost-effective process mapping service, please contact us:
