Process Mapping / Modeling

The System of Processes Illustrated

The use of a map or a model for an organization provides a somewhat abstract, but easier method of
communicating how the organization operates. As such, the map or model has limitations and does not
completely describe every aspect of the organization in its entirety.

A map of a country, for example, is not an exact representation of the earth being described but it is
useful to understand certain aspects that are of interest to the reader of the “lay of the land”. Such a
map is useful to understand the larger “thing” it describes. There are a number of types of maps
available, depending on the information required. As examples, political maps may emphasize the
boundaries, while geographical maps aim at showing the geography of the land.

Organization process maps provide an overview of how process within an organization are sequenced
and interact. They reveal the processes of which personnel are part of. This is a description of
processes at the highest level. If it is not understood or does not make sense to the organization, then it
is of no value.

A process map or model allows the organization to understand itself more readily and makes its process
more transparent and more easily understood. It is important for Zum Hingst Technologies to choose a
map or model that truly helps it explain what it does and whom it does it for.

The Process Model

This is one example of a process model or map.

An octopus model can be used to illustrate Customer Oriented Processes individually.

A “big picture” example of a octopus model can be used to graphically illustrate the direct inputs from the
external customer and the resulting direct output from the organization to the customer.
The octopus type process map can be adapted to show the relationship of sub processes in a process.

It may also be useful to look other ways to illustrate the sub process relationship in core processes or
COPs.
What is the Point?

The identification of processes and the understanding of their sequence and interactions allow
management to see impacts of changes in lower level processes at the macro level. It also provides
structure and discipline with process owners understanding and tracking progress of their processes at a
micro level. Identifying and illustrating a process so they can be understood allows for the performance
(effectiveness and efficiency) of the process to be reviewed in a visible and transparent system.