Flowchart
definition
The flowchart is a means of visually presenting the flow of data through an information processing systems, the
operations performed within the system and the sequence in which they are
performed. In this lesson, we shall concern ourselves with the program
flowchart, which describes what operations (and in what sequence) are required
to solve a given problem. The program flowchart can be likened to the blueprint
of a building. As we know a designer draws a blueprint before starting
construction on a building. Similarly, a programmer prefers to draw a flowchart
prior to writing a computer program. As in the case of the drawing of a
blueprint, the flowchart is drawn according to defined rules and using standard
flowchart symbols prescribed by the American National Standard Institute, Inc.
A flowchart is a graphic representation of how a process works, showing, at a minimum,
the sequence of steps. Several types of flowcharts exist: the most simple (high
level), a detailed version (detailed), and one that also indicates
the people involved in the steps (deployment or matrix).
When to use
flow chart
A flowchart helps to clarify how things are currently
working and how they could be improved. It also assists in finding the key
elements of a process, while drawing clear lines between where one process ends
and the next one starts. Developing a flowchart stimulates communication among
participants and establishes a common understanding about the process.
Flowcharts also uncover steps that are redundant or misplaced. In addition,
flowcharts are used to identify appropriate team members, to identify who
provides inputs or resources to whom, to establish important areas for
monitoring or data collection, to identify areas for improvement or increased
efficiency, and to generate hypotheses about causes. Flowcharts can be used to
examine processes for the flow of patients, information, materials, clinical
care, or combinations of these processes. It is recommended that flowcharts be
created through group discussion, as individuals rarely know the entire process
and the communication contributes to improvement.
Meaning of a
flow chart
A flowchart is a diagrammatic representation that
illustrates the sequence of operations to be performed to get the solution of a
problem. Flowcharts are generally drawn in the early stages of formulating
computer solutions. Flowcharts facilitate communication between programmers and
business people. These flowcharts play a vital role in the programming of a
problem and are quite helpful in understanding the logic of complicated and
lengthy problems. Once the flowchart is drawn, it becomes easy to write the
program in any high level language. Often we see how flowcharts are helpful in
explaining the program to others. Hence, it is correct to say that a flowchart
is a must for the better documentation of a complex program.
