Flowchart encodes values as topology of labelled boxes and directed edges. Frank Gilbreth process charts, 1921; ANSI/ISO flowchart symbols later.
In reports, ads and assignments it fits decisions, loops and hand-offs in a procedure. Skip it when the structure is a hierarchy or a free brainstorm.
Parts
- Mark — The core mark of Flowchart is topology of labelled boxes and directed edges.
- Scale — The scale must show zero (or a declared break) and units.
- Axis — Axis titles name the variable, not a mood.
- Legend — A legend is weaker than a direct label. Write beside the mark when you can.
- Label — Numbers are optional. If comparison is the job, label the ends only.
- Grid — Keep the grid faint. Data should own the ink.
- Annotation — One annotation sentence. Date the source.
- Frame — A thin frame. Never a 3-D box.
Variants
- Process map — Variant 1 of Flowchart. Same encoding, different layout.
- ISO 5807 — Variant 2 of Flowchart. Same encoding, different layout.
- Decision flow — Variant 3 of Flowchart. Same encoding, different layout.
- Flowchart 4 — Variant 4 of Flowchart. Same encoding, different layout.
Labels
- Axis — On Flowchart, make Mark readable.
- Legend — On Flowchart, make Scale readable.
- Label — On Flowchart, make Axis readable.
- Grid — On Flowchart, make Legend readable.
- Annotation — On Flowchart, make Label readable.
Flowchart: honour topology of labelled boxes and directed edges, and switch when the structure is a hierarchy or a free brainstorm.