When to use

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.

Use when

• Use when 1 — decisions, loops and hand-offs in a procedure
• Use when 2 — Excel or Google Sheets
• Use when 3 — PowerPoint
• Use when 4 — lab reports and poster boards
• Use when 5 — Meta, Google and retail print

Avoid when

• Avoid when 1 — the structure is a hierarchy or a free brainstorm
• Avoid when 2 — 3-D, dual axes, rainbow scales
• Avoid when 3 — Undated numbers, undated time series
• Avoid when 4 — Four charts on one slide

Audiences

• Work — PowerPoint
• Ads — Meta, Google and retail print
• School — lab reports and poster boards

Flowchart: honour topology of labelled boxes and directed edges, and switch when the structure is a hierarchy or a free brainstorm.

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