Best-Practice Guide #1 — Fundamental Process Mapping Principles

1. Establish a clear trigger and a clear definition of “done.”

2. Separate processes, procedures and tools to reduce confusion.

3. Map what actually happens rather than what should happen.

4. Keep steps simple, sequential and high-level.

5. Use standard notation for steps and decisions.

6. Incorporate swimlanes to show roles and responsibility.

7. Validate documentation with the people performing the work.

8. Capture exceptions and rework loops.

9. Review and refine documents regularly.

10. Ensure documentation is accessible and consistently used.