Business process mapping, a part of Business Process Management (BPM), is a framework used to create visual representations of work processes. Business process maps show the relationship between the steps and inputs to produce an end-product or service, such as when a product goes through packaging or when an employee’s leave is approved.
By mapping out the client's business process, the team can better understand what a business does, why it does what it does, what the standard is for success, who is responsible, and when and where different steps will occur. A business process could involve multiple personas, therefore understanding it can help the team understand relationship and differences between the personas.
It is also a great way to demonstrate our knowledge to the stakeholders.
Business process mapping could be done during the business SME interview, a user interview, or after the interviews in the define phase.
Remember that the business process map can be created at different levels
- Cross functional process - across multiple business functions
- Single function and multi role process - within one business function but involves users of different roles
- Single role process - within a single business function and for a specific user role
- Identify the business process you want to map out, and define a start and end point. Start at the highest level.
- Collect information about the process:
- Steps in the process
- Conditions or triggers
- Roles in the process and their responsibilities
- Input needed during the process (such as key data elements)
- Output produced during the process (such as actions taken or decisions made)
- Connect the steps with arrows
- Mark collected details on the lines
Here's a detailed guide to Business Process Mapping: Essential Guide to Business Process Mapping
References:
https://www.datexcorp.com/inventory-management-tips-optimizing-your-warehouse/