{"id":70993,"date":"2023-03-13T22:11:53","date_gmt":"2023-03-14T02:11:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/?p=70993"},"modified":"2026-03-05T07:41:21","modified_gmt":"2026-03-05T12:41:21","slug":"workflow-chart","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/","title":{"rendered":"Workflow Diagram: Definition, How-To, Examples &amp; Templates"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/What-is-a-Workflow-Chart-How-to-Create-One-2.png\" alt=\"workflow chart\" class=\"wp-image-71022\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/What-is-a-Workflow-Chart-How-to-Create-One-2.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/What-is-a-Workflow-Chart-How-to-Create-One-2-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/What-is-a-Workflow-Chart-How-to-Create-One-2-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/What-is-a-Workflow-Chart-How-to-Create-One-2-730x411.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Want to better understand and streamline your business processes? Look no further than workflow charts.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These types of diagrams <\/span><b>offer a visual representation of the steps involved in a workflow from start to finish<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, providing a clear overview of the entire process and highlighting areas that can be improved and optimized. And while getting started may seem daunting at first, with the right approach, you\u2019ll be able to&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/features\/diagram-maker\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">create effective workflow diagrams<\/a> that can help you achieve your goals.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;So today, I\u2019ll explore the basics of workflow charts, their benefits and the steps involved in creating them. Whether you&#8217;re looking to improve a current process or interested in starting a new project, this guide will provide you with the tools you need \u2014 including a ton of handy <a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/flowchart\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">flowchart templates<\/a> you can customize to your own liking too. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/features\/diagram-maker\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>START CREATING FOR FREE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what\">What is a workflow diagram?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A workflow chart, also known as a (process)&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/flow-chart-template\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">flowchart<\/a>&nbsp;or process \/ workflow diagram, is a visual representation of a workflow \u2014 i.e. a business process requiring a series of steps and decision points involved to achieve a particular goal.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These types of charts are used to illustrate the sequence of actions required to complete a task or a project. Here\u2019s one example of a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/flow-chart-template\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">workflow chart template<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/system-workflow-diagram-806d9129-0c53-47bb-84bc-e6f4c1613a15\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/System-Workflow-Diagram.png\" alt=\"System Workflow Diagram Template\" class=\"wp-image-71000\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/System-Workflow-Diagram.png 1344w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/System-Workflow-Diagram-300x182.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/System-Workflow-Diagram-1024x622.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/System-Workflow-Diagram-768x466.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/System-Workflow-Diagram-730x443.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1344px) 100vw, 1344px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/system-workflow-diagram-806d9129-0c53-47bb-84bc-e6f4c1613a15\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll notice the above workflow chart uses different shapes for certain steps. That\u2019s not just a stylistic choice!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Workflow charts typically use standardized symbols to represent different elements of a process, such as decision points, actions, inputs and outputs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Arrows or lines are used to connect the different shapes, indicating the direction of the flow and the order in which the steps need to be performed.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/flow-chart-template\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Read more about the different symbols used in flowcharts here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That being said, you don\u2019t *have* to limit yourself. Even if every step is represented with, say, a rectangle (as shown below), it still counts as a workflow chart \u2014 so long as the steps in a workflow are being described.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/simple-workflow-diagram-55150d60-7070-44a7-8efd-7ede21635e8b\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Simple-Workflow-Diagram.png\" alt=\"Simple Workflow Diagram Template\" class=\"wp-image-71001\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Simple-Workflow-Diagram.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Simple-Workflow-Diagram-232x300.png 232w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Simple-Workflow-Diagram-791x1024.png 791w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Simple-Workflow-Diagram-768x994.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Simple-Workflow-Diagram-730x945.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/simple-workflow-diagram-55150d60-7070-44a7-8efd-7ede21635e8b\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s easy to see how a workflow chart like the above can be customized to visualize any workflow or task.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s why this kind of business&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/process-mapping\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">process mapping<\/a>&nbsp;is frequently used in a variety of industries and fields, such as software development, project management, manufacturing,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/solutions\/sales-planning\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">sales<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/solutions\/employee-communication\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">human resources<\/a>&nbsp;and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">History of workflow diagrams<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Origins of workflow diagrams<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Workflow diagrams started in the early 1900s when engineers looked for better ways to understand and improve how work was done in factories. They used simple flowcharts to map each step in a process so it was easier to spot delays, unnecessary steps and inefficiencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One early example is the flow process chart, introduced in 1921 by industrial engineers Frank and Lillian Gilbreth. Their work helped show how visual diagrams could improve productivity and make processes easier to analyze. IBM explains this idea well in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ibm.com\/think\/topics\/flowchart\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">what a flowchart is and how it works<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These early diagrams became the starting point for modern workflow charts used in business today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Evolution in business &amp; technology<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As businesses grew and technology advanced, workflow diagrams became more useful for documenting complex processes. In the 1940s and 1950s, engineers began using flowcharts to plan computer programs before writing the actual code.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This made it easier to understand how systems worked step by step. Over time, organizations also created standard symbols so teams could read and interpret diagrams more consistently. You can learn more about how flowcharts are used in process improvement from the <a href=\"https:\/\/asq.org\/quality-resources\/flowchart\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">American Society for Quality\u2019s flowchart guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How they became a standard in process management<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>By the late 20th century, workflow diagrams were widely used to organize and improve business processes. Companies used them to train employees, document procedures and identify ways to make work more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the early 2000s, Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) introduced a standardized way to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.trisotech.com\/bpmn-introduction-and-history\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">visualize complex business workflows<\/a>. This made it easier for both technical and non-technical teams to understand how processes worked. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, workflow diagrams are commonly used across industries to analyze processes, improve efficiency and help teams collaborate more effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"workflow\">Workflow diagram examples by industry<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Looking for some&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/flowchart-examples\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">examples of workflow charts<\/a>?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are tons of ways you can use these handy diagrams to relay or revisit your business processes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019ve rounded up a few options and workflow examples below you can use as your starting point, no matter what your workflow looks like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Workflow diagrams for software development<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/uat-process-flow-diagram-60c9a4e3-652a-46a9-9490-7aa8af0547d0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/UAT-Process-Flow-Diagram-Template.png\" alt=\"UAT Process Flow Diagram Template\" class=\"wp-image-71007\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/UAT-Process-Flow-Diagram-Template.png 1056w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/UAT-Process-Flow-Diagram-Template-300x232.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/UAT-Process-Flow-Diagram-Template-1024x791.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/UAT-Process-Flow-Diagram-Template-768x593.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/UAT-Process-Flow-Diagram-Template-730x564.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1056px) 100vw, 1056px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/uat-process-flow-diagram-60c9a4e3-652a-46a9-9490-7aa8af0547d0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to software development, coding and other tech tasks, workflow charts are a super helpful tool that can help developers organize their work and ensure each step is completed accurately and efficiently.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The templates above and below are perfect for just that.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/website-user-flow-diagram-68b9ba14-b191-41a1-be13-ea449afe0a09\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Website-User-Flow-Diagram.png\" alt=\"Website User Flow Diagram Template\" class=\"wp-image-71008\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Website-User-Flow-Diagram.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Website-User-Flow-Diagram-232x300.png 232w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Website-User-Flow-Diagram-791x1024.png 791w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Website-User-Flow-Diagram-768x994.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Website-User-Flow-Diagram-730x945.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/website-user-flow-diagram-68b9ba14-b191-41a1-be13-ea449afe0a09\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Workflow diagrams for project management<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>By providing a visual representation of the project workflow, workflow charts are an invaluable tool when it comes to project management.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/project-workflow-diagram-4b9df52d-bf16-4992-9ae5-e93606b9ea66\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Workflow-Diagram.png\" alt=\"Project Workflow Diagram Template\" class=\"wp-image-71009\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Workflow-Diagram.png 1632w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Workflow-Diagram-300x194.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Workflow-Diagram-1024x663.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Workflow-Diagram-768x497.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Workflow-Diagram-1536x994.png 1536w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Workflow-Diagram-730x472.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1632px) 100vw, 1632px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/project-workflow-diagram-4b9df52d-bf16-4992-9ae5-e93606b9ea66\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to helping stakeholders understand and improve task sequences and how they relate to each other, these charts help project managers allocate resources more effectively \u2014 a vital aspect of proper project development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These are just a few of the templates you can customize instantly for all your project management needs. Check out the <a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\">diagram templates page<\/a> for more.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/project-management-workflow-diagram-6672c484-8a8d-4a3e-b531-e3835c1ad70b\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Management-Workflow-Diagram.png\" alt=\"Project Management Workflow Diagram Template\" class=\"wp-image-71010\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Management-Workflow-Diagram.png 1056w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Management-Workflow-Diagram-300x232.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Management-Workflow-Diagram-1024x791.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Management-Workflow-Diagram-768x593.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Management-Workflow-Diagram-730x564.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1056px) 100vw, 1056px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/project-management-workflow-diagram-6672c484-8a8d-4a3e-b531-e3835c1ad70b\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Workflow diagrams for sales teams<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>By mapping out the steps involved, workflow charts allow businesses to make data-driven decisions to optimize their sales process, resulting in increased productivity, reduced costs, and improved customer satisfaction.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/sales-flowchart-2eb75ac4-f2af-4920-81af-2756f46a4546\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sales-Flowchart.png\" alt=\"Sales Flowchart Template\" class=\"wp-image-71011\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sales-Flowchart.png 1632w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sales-Flowchart-300x194.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sales-Flowchart-1024x663.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sales-Flowchart-768x497.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sales-Flowchart-1536x994.png 1536w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sales-Flowchart-730x472.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1632px) 100vw, 1632px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/sales-flowchart-2eb75ac4-f2af-4920-81af-2756f46a4546\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>Workflow charts can also help sales teams stay on track by providing a visual representation of their progress and highlighting areas that require attention. This helps ensure that nothing falls through the cracks and enables sales teams to work more efficiently and effectively, so you can stay ahead of the competition.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/sales-funnel-flowchart-1b9b3d1f-61fe-43c0-8f92-bf8f35c2a5f0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sales-Funnel-Flowchart.png\" alt=\"Sales Funnel Flowchart Template\" class=\"wp-image-71012\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sales-Funnel-Flowchart.png 1632w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sales-Funnel-Flowchart-300x194.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sales-Funnel-Flowchart-1024x663.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sales-Funnel-Flowchart-768x497.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sales-Funnel-Flowchart-1536x994.png 1536w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sales-Funnel-Flowchart-730x472.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1632px) 100vw, 1632px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/sales-funnel-flowchart-1b9b3d1f-61fe-43c0-8f92-bf8f35c2a5f0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Related: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/sales-process-flowchart\/\"><strong>How to Create a Sales Process Flowchart in 5 Steps<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Workflow diagrams for human resources (HR)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, workflow charts can help streamline complex human resources (HR) procedures, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/recruitment-process-flowchart\/\">recruitment<\/a>, employee onboarding, <a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/performance-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">performance management<\/a> and benefits enrollment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They can also help to standardize HR procedures, making them consistent and repeatable, reducing errors and improving the overall quality of HR processes.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/hiring-swimlane-workflow-c9de0137-95ca-4486-848c-4edf97d711cf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hiring-Swimlane-Workflow.png\" alt=\"Hiring Swimlane Workflow Template\" class=\"wp-image-71013\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hiring-Swimlane-Workflow.png 1632w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hiring-Swimlane-Workflow-300x194.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hiring-Swimlane-Workflow-1024x663.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hiring-Swimlane-Workflow-768x497.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hiring-Swimlane-Workflow-1536x994.png 1536w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hiring-Swimlane-Workflow-730x472.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1632px) 100vw, 1632px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/hiring-swimlane-workflow-c9de0137-95ca-4486-848c-4edf97d711cf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>Plus, workflow charts help professionals in these roles communicate more effectively with employees, as they provide a clear understanding of what is expected from them at each step. This leads to increased productivity, better decision-making, and ultimately a more efficient HR department.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/internal-recruitment-process-flowchart-9a60ebc3-a3a9-46b0-9d13-c42894b5aa95\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Internal-Recruitment-Process-Flowchart.png\" alt=\"Internal Recruitment Process Flowchart Template\" class=\"wp-image-71014\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Internal-Recruitment-Process-Flowchart.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Internal-Recruitment-Process-Flowchart-103x300.png 103w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Internal-Recruitment-Process-Flowchart-351x1024.png 351w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Internal-Recruitment-Process-Flowchart-768x2241.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Internal-Recruitment-Process-Flowchart-526x1536.png 526w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Internal-Recruitment-Process-Flowchart-702x2048.png 702w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Internal-Recruitment-Process-Flowchart-730x2130.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/internal-recruitment-process-flowchart-9a60ebc3-a3a9-46b0-9d13-c42894b5aa95\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Basic workflow chart symbols (with cheat sheet)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When creating a workflow chart, a few core symbols appear again and again. These shapes help readers quickly understand what\u2019s happening in a process without reading long explanations. Here\u2019s a quick cheat sheet for the most common ones:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table class=\"workflow-symbols-cheat-sheet\">\n  <thead>\n    <tr>\n      <th>Symbol<\/th>\n      <th>Name<\/th>\n      <th>Meaning<\/th>\n      <th>When to use<\/th>\n      <th>Common mistake<\/th>\n    <\/tr>\n  <\/thead>\n  <tbody>\n    <tr>\n      <td>Oval<\/td>\n      <td>Start\/End<\/td>\n      <td>Indicates where the workflow begins or finishes<\/td>\n      <td>Use at the very beginning and end of a process<\/td>\n      <td>Adding too many start\/end points in a single workflow<\/td>\n    <\/tr>\n    <tr>\n      <td>Rectangle<\/td>\n      <td>Process<\/td>\n      <td>Represents a specific action, task, or step in the workflow<\/td>\n      <td>Use for any step where work actually happens<\/td>\n      <td>Using it for decisions instead of actions<\/td>\n    <\/tr>\n    <tr>\n      <td>Diamond<\/td>\n      <td>Decision<\/td>\n      <td>Shows a point where a yes\/no or conditional choice is made<\/td>\n      <td>Use when the workflow branches into different paths<\/td>\n      <td>Forgetting to label decision branches (Yes\/No)<\/td>\n    <\/tr>\n    <tr>\n      <td>Arrow<\/td>\n      <td>Flowline \/ Arrow<\/td>\n      <td>Shows the direction the workflow moves from one step to the next<\/td>\n      <td>Use to connect symbols and guide the sequence<\/td>\n      <td>Drawing arrows that cross over each other and clutter the chart<\/td>\n    <\/tr>\n    <tr>\n      <td>Parallelogram<\/td>\n      <td>Input\/Output<\/td>\n      <td>Represents information entering or leaving the process<\/td>\n      <td>Use when data is received, entered, or displayed<\/td>\n      <td>Using it for internal process steps instead of data actions<\/td>\n    <\/tr>\n    <tr>\n      <td>Circle<\/td>\n      <td>Connector<\/td>\n      <td>Links different parts of a workflow, often across pages or complex diagrams<\/td>\n      <td>Use to keep charts clean when lines would otherwise cross<\/td>\n      <td>Overusing connectors instead of simplifying the chart<\/td>\n    <\/tr>\n  <\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"is\"><strong>What is the purpose of a workflow diagram?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/workflow-chart.png\" alt=\"workflow chart\" class=\"wp-image-71015\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/workflow-chart.png 1632w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/workflow-chart-300x194.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/workflow-chart-1024x663.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/workflow-chart-768x497.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/workflow-chart-1536x994.png 1536w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/workflow-chart-730x472.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1632px) 100vw, 1632px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>By visually representing the steps involved in a process or task, workflow charts help ensure tasks are completed efficiently and effectively. This is particularly important when it comes to\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Planning and Design<\/strong>: Workflow charts are great for planning and designing processes&nbsp;<em>before<\/em>&nbsp;they\u2019re put in motion. By mapping out each step and any potential decision points involved, these charts allow you to create the most efficient workflow possible, and troubleshoot aspects that could be improved<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Communication<\/strong>: Workflow charts make it easy to communicate processes or tasks to others by offering a visual representation of the steps involved. This is particularly important for&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/employee-training\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">employee training<\/a>, as it helps folks better understand not only what needs to be done, but when and how.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Standardization<\/strong>: Workflow charts are often used to standardize processes across an organization. By providing a clear, consistent visual representation of a process, these charts ensure everyone is up to speed so that tasks are completed the same way every time.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Process Improvement<\/strong>: Workflow charts help identify areas for&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/process-improvement-plan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">process improvement<\/a>. With a glance, stakeholders can identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, or areas where errors are likely to occur, and work to improve the process accordingly. This is especially useful when tackling problems with multiple interconnected factors, often referred to as &#8216;wicked problems,&#8217; where a simple solution is elusive.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Now you might be thinking: that\u2019s good and all, but I don\u2019t want to spend hours creating one.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>No sweat! I\u2019ll describe exactly how you can do just that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how\">How to make a workflow diagram (step-by-step guide)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that you know the basics, you\u2019re nearly ready to create workflow charts yourself.&nbsp;Below, I\u2019ve outlined the process of making a workflow chart at a high level.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/workflow-chart.gif\" alt=\"workflow chart\" class=\"wp-image-71016\" width=\"700\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1 &#8211; Identify the process &amp; goals<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Begin by defining the specific process or workflow that you want to chart. This could be any process, whether it\u2019s a business, manufacturing, or another type of procedure. Clearly outline the goals of creating the diagram\u2014what do you want to achieve? Understanding the purpose will help you structure the diagram effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2 &#8211; Gather workflow information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Next, gather all the relevant information needed to accurately map out the workflow. Consider the process as a whole and any specifics about the steps involved. Take note of the necessary details such as key actions, decision points, and participants. This will form the foundation of your diagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3 &#8211; Choose the right diagram type<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Think about your audience and the purpose of the diagram. Who will be using this chart, and what information do they need to see? The answers will guide you in selecting the most appropriate diagram type (e.g., flowchart, BPMN, or process map) and help you decide on the level of detail required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 4 &#8211; Map out the steps &amp; decision points<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Identify and outline the key steps in the process. Consider any decision points that might create branches in the workflow. Stay focused on the critical steps that ensure the process is completed successfully. This will help you design a clear, concise flow of activities that are easy to follow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 5 &#8211; Select symbols &amp; arrange the Ffow<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Choose the correct symbols to represent the different steps and decision points in your workflow. Each symbol should have a clear meaning, like a rectangle for actions or a diamond for decisions. Arrange these elements in the order that the steps are executed, making sure the flow is logical and easy to understand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 6 &#8211; Review &amp; optimize the diagram<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you\u2019ve mapped out the entire process, review the diagram to ensure accuracy and clarity. Look for areas that may need revision, such as unclear steps or missing information. Optimize the diagram by simplifying where possible and making sure it is easy for others to comprehend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 7 &#8211; Use a workflow diagram maker (with templates)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To streamline the creation process, use a tool like Venngage\u2019s Diagram Maker. The platform offers ready-made Smart templates that allow you to create a professional workflow diagram in minutes. Templates simplify the design process and make it easier to modify or update the chart as needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"600\" height=\"580\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/workflow-chart-1.gif\" alt=\"workflow chart\" class=\"wp-image-71017\" style=\"box-shadow: 0 1px 4px 0 rgb(0 0 0 \/ 10%), 0 0 6px 0 rgb(0 0 0 \/ 10%), 0 2px 2px -2px rgb(0 0 0 \/ 15%);\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"types\"><strong>4 types of workflow diagrams<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Process flowchart (process flow diagram)&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/project-workflow-chart-4b558487-8efd-45bf-aa76-6b8d0c273c1a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Workflow-Chart.png\" alt=\"Project Workflow Chart Template\" class=\"wp-image-71002\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Workflow-Chart.png 1632w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Workflow-Chart-300x194.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Workflow-Chart-1024x663.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Workflow-Chart-768x497.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Workflow-Chart-1536x994.png 1536w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Project-Workflow-Chart-730x472.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1632px) 100vw, 1632px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/project-workflow-chart-4b558487-8efd-45bf-aa76-6b8d0c273c1a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>A process flow diagram (PFD) is a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/process-diagramming\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">visual representation of a process<\/a>&nbsp;or a system. It represents the flow of materials, information or other resources through various stages of a process or system.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In other words, it\u2019s exactly what we\u2019ve already been talking about.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind that the contents of your business process diagram should be chosen based on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>The information you need to map (i.e. the steps, people, systems, data, inputs, outputs, decisions or actions involved)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The purpose of the diagram<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The audience you\u2019re communicating with<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, the workflow chart below uses language that those familiar with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.astera.com\/type\/blog\/data-management-software\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">data management systems<\/a> will understand.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/clinical-data-management-process-flowchart-78526642-150f-4649-91af-aa5cb69b4f76\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Clinical-Data-Management-Process-Flowchart.png\" alt=\"Clinical Data Management Process Flowchart Template\" class=\"wp-image-71003\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Clinical-Data-Management-Process-Flowchart.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Clinical-Data-Management-Process-Flowchart-232x300.png 232w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Clinical-Data-Management-Process-Flowchart-791x1024.png 791w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Clinical-Data-Management-Process-Flowchart-768x994.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Clinical-Data-Management-Process-Flowchart-730x945.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/clinical-data-management-process-flowchart-78526642-150f-4649-91af-aa5cb69b4f76\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Swimlane diagrams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/swimlane-activity-diagram-70d5f657-29a1-47f7-9206-e9ffe9a4311a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Swimlane-Activity-Diagram-Template.png\" alt=\"Swimlane Activity Diagram Template\" class=\"wp-image-71004\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Swimlane-Activity-Diagram-Template.png 1056w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Swimlane-Activity-Diagram-Template-300x232.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Swimlane-Activity-Diagram-Template-1024x791.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Swimlane-Activity-Diagram-Template-768x593.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Swimlane-Activity-Diagram-Template-730x564.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1056px) 100vw, 1056px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/diagrams\/swimlane-activity-diagram-70d5f657-29a1-47f7-9206-e9ffe9a4311a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/swimlane-diagram\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Swimlane diagrams<\/a>&nbsp;\u2014 also known as process flow diagrams or cross-functional diagrams \u2014 are a type of workflow chart that divides the steps involved in a process into categories, or&nbsp;<em>swimlanes<\/em>. These categories represent the groups or individuals that perform each step in the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike a simple flowchart, swimlane charts depict who is in charge of each step. This means they\u2019re great for highlighting the process steps and responsibilities assigned to different employees or departments, and seeing how everything works together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can see this represented in the swimlane diagram template below.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/presentations\/business-planning-swimlane-diagram-template-for-powerpoint-57977572-d1a9-4317-9619-7e35fb7e2055\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Business-Planning-Swimlane-Diagram-Template-for-PowerPoint.png\" alt=\"Business Planning Swimlane Diagram Template for PowerPoint\" class=\"wp-image-71005\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Business-Planning-Swimlane-Diagram-Template-for-PowerPoint.png 1280w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Business-Planning-Swimlane-Diagram-Template-for-PowerPoint-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Business-Planning-Swimlane-Diagram-Template-for-PowerPoint-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Business-Planning-Swimlane-Diagram-Template-for-PowerPoint-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Business-Planning-Swimlane-Diagram-Template-for-PowerPoint-730x411.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/presentations\/business-planning-swimlane-diagram-template-for-powerpoint-57977572-d1a9-4317-9619-7e35fb7e2055\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>This example shows how the payroll workflow is divided amongst various roles, and how those roles interact. It\u2019s not hard to see why these diagrams are key for streamlining&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/solutions\/communication-management\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">project management<\/a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/onboarding-checklist\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">onboarding<\/a>, or illustrating internal workflows and documenting&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/business-process-mapping\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">business processes<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Related:&nbsp;<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/swimlane-process-map\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Swimlane Process Maps: How do They Work Together to Improve Business Processes?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Business process modeling notation (BPMN) chart<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Business Process Modeling Notation, otherwise known as BPMN, is a workflow chart that models the steps of a business process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once again, BPMN visually depicts detailed sequences of business activities and information flows for a process to be complete \u2014 however these types of diagrams follow specific rules made by the Object Management Group.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Suppliers inputs processes outputs customers (SIPOC) chart<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/mind-maps\/lean-six-sigma-sipoc-diagram-f0227007-7834-4b60-b897-7734c2f9ffd5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Lean-Six-Sigma-SIPOC-Diagram.png\" alt=\"SIPOC Diagram Template\" class=\"wp-image-71006\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Lean-Six-Sigma-SIPOC-Diagram.png 1056w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Lean-Six-Sigma-SIPOC-Diagram-300x232.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Lean-Six-Sigma-SIPOC-Diagram-1024x791.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Lean-Six-Sigma-SIPOC-Diagram-768x593.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Lean-Six-Sigma-SIPOC-Diagram-730x564.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1056px) 100vw, 1056px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/mind-maps\/lean-six-sigma-sipoc-diagram-f0227007-7834-4b60-b897-7734c2f9ffd5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS WORKFLOW CHART TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>Suppliers Inputs Processes Outputs Customers (SIPOC) charts offer a visual overview of the key components of a business process or system. Specifically, they focus on the inputs and outputs of a process, as well as the stakeholders involved.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In mapping out flows and identifying collaborators according to supplier, input, process, output and customer, these charts usually end up looking like a mix between a flowchart and a swim lane diagram. They\u2019re most frequently used to map out manufacturing processes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Related:&nbsp;<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/types-of-flowcharts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>7 Types of Flowcharts and How to Choose the Right One<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Workflow diagram in Word vs Excel vs PowerPoint vs Google tools<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Different tools work better depending on how the workflow chart will be used. Some are better for documentation, others for presentations or team collaboration. Here\u2019s a quick comparison to help you decide which tool fits your workflow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Tool<\/th>\n<th>Best for<\/th>\n<th>Pros<\/th>\n<th>Cons<\/th>\n<th>Collaboration<\/th>\n<th>Best output<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Microsoft Word<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>SOPs or process documentation where the workflow chart sits inside a written document<\/td>\n<td>\nEasy to keep charts and explanations together.<br>\nFamiliar interface for most teams.<br>\nExports cleanly to PDF.\n<\/td>\n<td>\nConnector alignment can get fiddly.<br>\nLarge diagrams become difficult to manage.\n<\/td>\n<td>Good with OneDrive or SharePoint, but multi-editor diagrams can feel clunky<\/td>\n<td>SOPs, policy documents, printable PDFs<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Microsoft Excel<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Simple workflows where grid alignment or step lists help organize the process<\/td>\n<td>\nGrid helps with alignment.<br>\nSteps and data can live in the same sheet.<br>\nWorks well for structured print layouts.\n<\/td>\n<td>\nNot designed for diagrams.<br>\nConnectors can be frustrating.<br>\nWorkflows can become messy across cells.\n<\/td>\n<td>Decent with OneDrive, though diagram editing isn\u2019t as smooth as slide tools<\/td>\n<td>Printouts, internal working documents, lightweight operations tracking<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Microsoft PowerPoint<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Presentations or quick workflow visuals for meetings and workshops<\/td>\n<td>\nFast to build diagrams.<br>\nStrong shape and connector tools.<br>\nGood layout control.\n<\/td>\n<td>\nNot ideal for long-form documentation.<br>\nFile versioning can get messy across teams.\n<\/td>\n<td>Good co-authoring support and smoother diagram editing than Word<\/td>\n<td>Presentations, workshops, stakeholder reviews<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Google Slides \/ Google Drawings<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Lightweight, shareable workflows for teams using Google Workspace<\/td>\n<td>\nReal-time collaboration.<br>\nEasy sharing via links.<br>\nNo software installation required.\n<\/td>\n<td>\nFormatting precision can be limited.<br>\nComplex diagrams become harder to manage.\n<\/td>\n<td>Excellent real-time collaboration with comments and simple sharing<\/td>\n<td>Team alignment docs, quick training visuals, shareable diagrams<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Online diagram tools (template-based)<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Cross-functional workflows or processes updated frequently<\/td>\n<td>\nPurpose-built diagram tools.<br>\nTemplates and swimlanes keep charts clean.<br>\nBetter for complex workflows.\n<\/td>\n<td>\nSome templates or exports may be gated.<br>\nLearning curve varies by tool.\n<\/td>\n<td>Usually excellent collaboration with comments, sharing, and version history<\/td>\n<td>Reusable templates, process libraries, onboarding materials, exports (PNG, PDF, PPT)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"venngage\"><strong>How to create a workflow diagram in Venngage<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You don\u2019t have to be a design whiz to produce a workflow chart that looks great and gets the job done. With Venngage\u2019s Diagram Maker and extensive library of professionally-designed&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/smart-diagram\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Smart templates<\/a>, you can get started right away.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"492\" height=\"329\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/workflow-chart-Venngage.gif\" alt=\"Venngage workflow chart\" class=\"wp-image-71018\" style=\"box-shadow: 0 1px 4px 0 rgb(0 0 0 \/ 10%), 0 0 6px 0 rgb(0 0 0 \/ 10%), 0 2px 2px -2px rgb(0 0 0 \/ 15%);\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Start by&nbsp;<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/infograph.venngage.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><strong>signing up<\/strong><\/a><strong>&nbsp;for a free Venngage account.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Select a chart template that matches your use case.<\/strong>Click on the \u201cFlowcharts\u201d tab on&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Venngage\u2019s template page<\/a>&nbsp;to see a range of options you can choose from. Then, click the \u201cCreate\u201d button on the template.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&nbsp;Swap in your desired text, icons and colors to make it your own. Then, use the drag-and-drop editor to map out the process with symbols and directional cues. (Our diagram templates are \u201cSmart\u201d \u2014 meaning you can add, edit, delete or drag nodes, texts and icons around in one click, and the nodes will automatically adjust to match.)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Once you\u2019re happy with your design,&nbsp;<strong>share the link publicly for free or&nbsp;<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/pricing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>upgrade to a paid plan<\/strong><\/a><strong>&nbsp;to download<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Upgrading gives you the ability to download your flowchart as a PNG, PNG HD, PDF, Interactive PDF or PowerPoint file. And with a Business Plan, get access to other premium features like&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/real-time-collaboration\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">real-time Team Collaboration<\/a>, and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/my-brand-kit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">automated branding via My Brand Kit<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"FAQ\"><strong>Workflow diagram FAQ<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the four main flowchart types?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The four types of flowcharts are:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Process flowcharts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Workflow charts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Swimlane charts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Data flowcharts<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the three basic components of a workflow diagram?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The three basic components of a workflow diagram are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Activities\/Steps<\/strong>: The individual tasks or steps that need to be completed as part of the workflow. Each step should be clearly defined and labeled.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Decisions\/Branching<\/strong>: Points in the workflow where a decision is made or where the process branches into different paths. Each decision should be clearly labeled with the possible outcomes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Connectors\/Arrows<\/strong>: Lines or arrows that connect the activities and decisions in the workflow diagram. These show the sequence and direction of flow.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Is a workflow chart and a workflow diagram the same?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, a workflow chart and a workflow diagram are essentially the same. Both terms refer to a visual representation of a process or workflow, illustrating the sequence of steps and decision points needed to achieve a specific goal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the four main types of workflow diagrams?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The four main types of workflow diagrams are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Process Flow Diagrams (PFD)<\/strong>: Visual representation of a process showing the flow of materials, information, or resources.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Swimlane Diagrams<\/strong>: These diagrams organize the steps of a process into categories or &#8220;lanes&#8221; representing different groups or individuals responsible for each step.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>BPMN Diagrams<\/strong>: Business Process Model and Notation diagrams follow specific standards for modeling business process flows.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SIPOC Diagrams<\/strong>: Focus on the key components of a business process, such as suppliers, inputs, processes, outputs, and customers.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is the best tool to create a workflow diagram?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several tools available to create workflow diagrams, with some of the best options being Venngage&#8217;s Diagram Maker, Lucidchart, and Microsoft Visio. Venngage, for example, provides customizable templates and an easy-to-use interface for quick creation of professional diagrams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Can AI generate workflow diagrams?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, AI can generate workflow diagrams using advanced diagramming tools that incorporate AI to automate aspects of the design process. These tools can suggest layouts, symbols, and even entire workflows based on user inputs and data, saving time and effort in diagram creation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/infograph.venngage.com\/infographics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>START CREATING FOR FREE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Want to better understand and streamline your business processes? Look no further than workflow charts.&nbsp; These types of diagrams offer a visual representation of the steps involved in a workflow from start to finish, providing a clear overview of the entire process and highlighting areas that can be improved and optimized. And while getting started [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":142,"featured_media":71022,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false},"categories":[188,610,611],"tags":[229,235],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v17.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Creating a workflow chart is a proven way to streamline your business processes. Discover the ins &amp; outs of workflow diagrams here.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Workflow Diagram: Definition, How-To, Examples &amp; Templates - Venngage\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Creating a workflow chart is a proven way to streamline your business processes. Discover the ins &amp; outs of workflow diagrams here.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Venngage\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Venngage\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2023-03-14T02:11:53+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-03-05T12:41:21+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/What-is-a-Workflow-Chart-How-to-Create-One-2.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"576\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@venngage\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@venngage\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Jessie Strongitharm\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"15 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/\",\"name\":\"Venngage\",\"description\":\"Learn to Communicate with Data\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/#primaryimage\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/What-is-a-Workflow-Chart-How-to-Create-One-2.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/What-is-a-Workflow-Chart-How-to-Create-One-2.png\",\"width\":1024,\"height\":576,\"caption\":\"workflow chart\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/#webpage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/\",\"name\":\"Workflow Diagram: Definition, How-To, Examples &amp; Templates - Venngage\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/#primaryimage\"},\"datePublished\":\"2023-03-14T02:11:53+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-03-05T12:41:21+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/ecf75b9a6ebf54eed12ce5ca47907c58\"},\"description\":\"Creating a workflow chart is a proven way to streamline your business processes. Discover the ins & outs of workflow diagrams here.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Blog\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Beginner Guides\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/category\/beginner-guides\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"Workflow Diagram: Definition, How-To, Examples &amp; Templates\"}]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/ecf75b9a6ebf54eed12ce5ca47907c58\",\"name\":\"Jessie Strongitharm\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/#personlogo\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6a45635c74b0257a05fa7ed7dd4c9c7e?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6a45635c74b0257a05fa7ed7dd4c9c7e?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Jessie Strongitharm\"},\"description\":\"Jessie Strongitharm was a content marketer &amp; writer at Venngage with a focus on accessibility, design trends, and effective communication. Her expertise spans flyer design, infographic creation, and marketing analysis, where she provides actionable insights and practical tools that empower her audience to create compelling and accessible visual content. Jessie\\u2019s work is dedicated to helping others stay ahead of design trends while ensuring clear and impactful messaging. Jessie's background in psychology, new media communications and B2B SaaS marketing informs the copy she crafts for Venngage's audience.\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/author\/jessie\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"description":"Creating a workflow chart is a proven way to streamline your business processes. Discover the ins & outs of workflow diagrams here.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Workflow Diagram: Definition, How-To, Examples &amp; Templates - Venngage","og_description":"Creating a workflow chart is a proven way to streamline your business processes. Discover the ins & outs of workflow diagrams here.","og_url":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/","og_site_name":"Venngage","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Venngage","article_published_time":"2023-03-14T02:11:53+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-03-05T12:41:21+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1024,"height":576,"url":"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/What-is-a-Workflow-Chart-How-to-Create-One-2.png","type":"image\/png"}],"twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@venngage","twitter_site":"@venngage","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Jessie Strongitharm","Est. reading time":"15 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/","name":"Venngage","description":"Learn to Communicate with Data","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":"required name=search_term_string"}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/#primaryimage","inLanguage":"en-US","url":"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/What-is-a-Workflow-Chart-How-to-Create-One-2.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2023\/03\/What-is-a-Workflow-Chart-How-to-Create-One-2.png","width":1024,"height":576,"caption":"workflow chart"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/#webpage","url":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/","name":"Workflow Diagram: Definition, How-To, Examples &amp; Templates - Venngage","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/#primaryimage"},"datePublished":"2023-03-14T02:11:53+00:00","dateModified":"2026-03-05T12:41:21+00:00","author":{"@id":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/ecf75b9a6ebf54eed12ce5ca47907c58"},"description":"Creating a workflow chart is a proven way to streamline your business processes. Discover the ins & outs of workflow diagrams here.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/"]}]},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/workflow-chart\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Blog","item":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Beginner Guides","item":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/category\/beginner-guides\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Workflow Diagram: Definition, How-To, Examples &amp; Templates"}]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/ecf75b9a6ebf54eed12ce5ca47907c58","name":"Jessie Strongitharm","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/#personlogo","inLanguage":"en-US","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6a45635c74b0257a05fa7ed7dd4c9c7e?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6a45635c74b0257a05fa7ed7dd4c9c7e?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Jessie Strongitharm"},"description":"Jessie Strongitharm was a content marketer &amp; writer at Venngage with a focus on accessibility, design trends, and effective communication. Her expertise spans flyer design, infographic creation, and marketing analysis, where she provides actionable insights and practical tools that empower her audience to create compelling and accessible visual content. Jessie\u2019s work is dedicated to helping others stay ahead of design trends while ensuring clear and impactful messaging. Jessie's background in psychology, new media communications and B2B SaaS marketing informs the copy she crafts for Venngage's audience.","url":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/author\/jessie\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70993"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/142"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=70993"}],"version-history":[{"count":30,"href":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70993\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":110712,"href":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70993\/revisions\/110712"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/71022"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=70993"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=70993"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=70993"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}