What do different flowchart symbols mean




















Flow lines into an alternate process flow step are typically dashed. The Delay flowchart symbol depicts any waiting period that is part of a process. Delay shapes are common in process mapping.

As the names states, any process step that is a Preparation process flow step, such as a set-up operation. Manual Operations flowchart shapes show which process steps are not automated.

Terminators show the start and stop points in a process. When used as a Start symbol, terminators depict a trigger action that sets the process flow into motion. Indicates a question or branch in the process flow. Flowchart : In flowcharts, this symbol is typically small and is used as a Connector to show a jump from one point in the process flow to another. Connectors are usually labeled with capital letters A, B, AA to show matching jump points.

They are handy for avoiding flow lines that cross other shapes and flow lines. They are also handy for jumping to and from a sub-processes defined in a separate area than the main flowchart.

Process Mapping : In process maps, this symbol is full sized and shows an Inspection point in the process flow. That's why it's important to include a symbol key in the flowchart. Off-Page Connector shows continuation of a process flowchart onto another page. When using them in conjunction with Connectors, it's best to differentiate the labels, e. In actual practice, most flowcharts just use the Connect shape for both on-page and off-page references.

This is a general data storage object used in the process flow as opposed to data which could be also stored on a hard drive, magnetic tape, memory card, of any other storage device. Direct Data object in a process flow represents information stored which can be accessed directly. This object represents a computer's hard drive. This is a shape which is commonly found in programming flowcharts to illustrate the information stored in memory, as opposed to on a file.

This shape is often referred to as the magnetic core memory of early computers; or the random access memory RAM as we call it today. This object takes the shape of a reel of tape. It represents information stored in a sequence, such as data on a magnetic tape. This object is represented by rectangle with the top sloping up from left to right.

The Manual Input object signifies an action where the user is prompted for information that must be manually input into a system. This shape takes two names - 'Subroutine' or 'Predefined Process'. It represents an action, function or process and can be considered one of the most-used flowchart symbols.

This symbol is shaped like a rectangle with its bottom side in a wave, and it is used to represent the input or output of a document. For instance, this symbol might be used to outline a document input, such as receiving an email or report. Similarly, it can be used to represent a document output like producing a presentation or project. These symbols are little circles used to connect separate elements of a flowchart across a whole page. Connectors are typically used in flowcharts with more complex processes, such as software or application development.

Shaped as a rhombus, this symbol is used to indicate a question that results in a "yes" or "no" answer, as well as a possible "true" or "false" situation.

Depending on the answer to the proposed question, the flowchart can then split into various branches to complete the outline of the workflow.

Read more: A Guide to Bubble Charts. This symbol looks like an upside-down pentagon and is oftentimes used in more complex flowcharts to connect the separate elements of multiple pages. There can be a page number within each shape, allowing for easier reference.

This symbol is used to represent any data that can be available for input and output. Also referred to as the data symbol, this shape can also be used to represent the resources used or produced. Shaped as a parallelogram, it may sometimes be substituted with the paper tape symbol. It may also be connected by a dashed line to various related sections of the flowchart. Conversely to the document symbol, this symbol represents more than one document in the flowchart. It has the same meaning as the document symbol, with the addition of more documents or reports that may be needed for the workflow.

This symbol may only be used in complex flowcharts and indicates a process, operation or function that has already been defined. This cylinder-shaped flowchart symbol represents the data that is stored on a storage service that can allow for user searches and filters.

For instance, the data need to run a real estate app can be housed within a storage service for users to search and filter results by price, location and other search criteria. Also referred to as the data storage symbol, this flowchart symbol represents where the data is stored within a workflow process. For instance, a software developer producing a new program for accounting might use this symbol to represent the specific location of various financial data within different calculation processes.

This symbol, shaped as a waving flag, is one of the more complex flowchart symbols and is most likely to be used in rare cases, such as mapping the processes or specific input data for CNC machines and older computers. This symbol is commonly used in flowcharts that outline software designs and can indicate the data stored within the internal memory system.

This flowchart symbol is used to represent manual input of data, such as a step in a process or typing data into a field or form.

Plan projects, build road maps, and launch products successfully. Identify gaps, pinpoint inefficiencies, and mitigate risk in your workflows. Lucidchart is a collaborative workspace that brings remote teams together in real time. Each symbol has a specific meaning and context where its use is appropriate. If you get confused while drawing your flow chart, remember that most charts can be drawn with just a few common symbols, which are listed below.

Want to create a flowchart of your own? Try Lucidchart. It's fast, easy, and totally free. These flowchart shapes and symbols are some of the most common types you'll find in most flowchart diagrams. Represents the input or output of a document, specifically. Examples of and input are receiving a report, email, or order. Examples of an output using a document symbol include generating a presentation, memo, or letter.

The flowchart path may then split off into different branches depending on the answer or consequences thereafter. Frequently used within complex charts, this symbol connects separate elements across multiple pages with the page number usually placed on or within the shape for easy reference. Placed along with context, this symbol adds needed explanation or comments within the specified range. It may be connected by a dashed line to the relevant section of the flowchart as well.

Diagramming is quick and easy with Lucidchart. Start a free trial today to start creating and collaborating. Many of these additional flowchart symbols are best utilized when mapping out a process flow diagram for apps, user flow, data processing, etc.



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