Any organization or business uses some form of a process flow diagram. In the following paragraphs, some common errors in making one will be shown.

Not Using Standard Symbols

The first common mistake that is made in creating a process flow diagram is not using standard symbols. One should use the same process flow diagram symbol consistently throughout one’s process diagram so that it can be easily recognized by others. It can be difficult to read a flow chart that is cluttered with images and the key process flow diagram symbols for one’s process. It won’t take long before an audience loses interest in what you’re trying to convey.

Putting Too Much Information

The next common mistake for those who create a process flow diagram template is when too much information is crammed into it. A standard size sheet of paper is 8.5 by 11 inches. A good rule of thumb for a process flow diagram is to make it two to three sheets maximum size if the process has too much information that needs to be conveyed. If there isn’t enough room on a standard sheet of paper, then another piece of paper should be used and the process flow chart should still look clean and professional.

Not Putting Enough Details

Another common mistake made in creating process flow diagrams is not adding detail to one’s diagram. A good rule of thumb when making a process flow chart or any kind of illustration is that not having enough details can be just as bad as too many details. Too little information tends to confuse people, which is the exact opposite of what a process flow diagram is supposed to do.

The key here is to add just enough detail that makes it clear and easy to understand. There are a number of websites available for those who wish to make a process flow chart for this purpose but lack the necessary software to do so. If you’re looking for one, a good example of this is Venngage.

Not Putting Proper Labels

The next common mistake in making a process flow diagram or any kind of technical illustration is not following proper labeling techniques. A common rule in labeling processes is to put detailed labels in the middle of the box and subtask labels on the edges. One should always be consistent when it comes to their process flow chart.

Being Inconsistent With The Processes

If a certain method is used in one part of the flowchart, then it should be kept consistent when adding details to that same place. If no standard method is being followed then the process flows will look sloppy and confusing to anyone trying to view them.

Font Errors

Another common mistake that people make in creating any type of technical illustration is using too many fonts or putting the same font throughout the entire process flowchart. It is best to use one type of font throughout the entire process diagram. If you wish to change the font, it is a good idea to make a key at the beginning of your flow chart that tells what the different fonts stand for.

It is never a good idea to mix two or more fonts on one technical illustration especially when they are different from one another. There are also certain fonts that just don’t look good when used in technical illustration. Some examples of these fonts are Comic Sans MS, Monotype Corsiva, and Goudy Stout.

Confusing These Errors With Another Process Flow Diagram 

It is also a common mistake in creating a process diagram that any of these errors that have been discussed in this article might be confused with another process flow chart. It is important when making a process diagram for various reasons, such as business processes or just to clarify something in your mind, that all of these errors are very noticeable. Otherwise, one might run the risk of not conveying information correctly and effectively to others.

Source: Venngage

Overcomplicating The Process Flow Diagram

Lastly, the last and final common mistake is overcomplicating a process flow chart. A person should know why they need to create a process, and they should be able to explain it in as few words as possible. If your audience still needs more information from you about what you are doing or want them to do, then make a separate process flow chart that can be used after the first one.

There’s no need to go overboard with making a process diagram look fancy. Just make it simple to understand, this will make your job as the creator of the process flowchart easier, and it’ll make your audience feel more comfortable once they absorb all of your information.

A simple process flow diagram is used in management because it makes complex business processes of an organization easier to understand. It allows anyone who reads it to grasp what needs to be done at each step and how to carry out each step correctly.

For simple, easy-to-understand process flow diagram templates, go to Venngage. 

In Summary

A large part of making process diagrams effective is knowing what common errors to avoid. By avoiding these mistakes, you will create clear and concise flowcharts that are easy to understand by people who read them.