Process Fundamentals

We are surrounded by processes, at home, at work and everywhere in-between; we often follow processes subconsciously, because they have been performed so regularly they have become habitual.

A process will take an input, such as information or raw materials; and through a number of actions, or tasks, the process transforms the input into an output.

Just as a street map would show us how to get from A to B, a process map or model demonstrates the route we must follow to transform an input to an output.  LIke geographical maps, process maps and models can be draw at different levels depending upon the amount of detail your audience would like to see.

Documenting processes brings a range of benefits, including:

• Clarifying the scope of a team's work and where collaboration is needed across the University.
• Supporting colleague training and understanding.
• Highlighting opportunities for improvement and service enhancement.
• Providing a baseline for change and identifying impacted activities.
• Improving shared understanding of University operations.
• Reducing reliance on individuals and enhancing business continuity.
• Promoting consistency and standardisation.
• Defining process scope, inputs, outputs, and organisational context.
• Demonstrating compliance to auditors and regulators.

It is good practice to store your process maps in an agreed location and consider a regular schedule for review and updates to make sure they stay relevant and representative. By capturing how we work, we foster clarity, accountability, and continuous improvement.