Purpose
The purpose of mapping Processes is to provide a structured, visual method to record steps, milestones, decision points, sequence, responsibilities, and responsible parties involved in the process. The Best Way™ (TBW) one-page standard form is easily read, with the first step of the process beginning with the space at 1 o'clock (at the most upper right position) and is then read clockwise until the last step of the process is read. Once complete, The Best Way™ format will resemble something like a flow chart, capturing the flow of logic and allowing for replication and evaluation of the procedure.

Objective
The objectives of mapping a process are to create and ensure organization, structure and consistency, so that each member of your Deliverables Team knows not only what to do, but how and when to do it.

Outcome
When all 14 essential elements* are clearly, thoroughly, and elegantly represented in the simple one-pager for each process which we call The Best Way™.  This easy-to-use format allows anyone in your office, regardless of their level of skill or experience to document their process for acceptance and approval in less than 20 minutes no matter how complicated the process.

7 (of the 14) Essentials of a Well-Documented Office Process:
 

1. A standardized format exists for all processes within your business so that each process may be absorbed quickly.
2. The format is as simple as possible so that individuals at all levels of skill and experience can easily follow and learn how to document any process in minutes, no matter how complicated, rather than taking days or weeks to document. Your "culture of process documentation" is supported by having a process documentation format that anyone at any level can quickly create and submit to their leader for acceptance and approval (rather than the other way around).
3. Defines the entire process first, with the details documented in processes elsewhere (usually other, more narrow, processes exist where the components of the entire "parent" process are "drilled-down" to smaller "children" processes describing the work-flow in greater detail)
4. Clearly establishes where the process begins and where it ends so there is clarity about the "starting line" and "finish line" for each process (and any "hand-offs" to other named processes along the way).
5. Can be comprehended and followed by the individuals with the lowest level of skill in the office, without coaching, so that no process is dependent upon any single individual.
6. Establishes the sequence of activities, so that the action sequence is followed in the most sensible order.
7. Establishes the time elapsed between steps so the people involved understand the pace and timeline for every process.

*Only 7 of the 14 steps to mapping a process are presented here. Login to Module 8 for the complete step-by-step instructions plus tips.