As the chart gets more complex, you can link any of the objects anywhere on the canvas to an entirely separate chart. This effectively creates a multi-layered flow chart showing your entire organization, for example, and backing it up with more detailed diagrams for each division, department, or operation.
When you have an accurate flow chart, go over it carefully. Look for:
* operations that can be combined effectively,
* processes that are redundant or unnecessary,
* procedures that take too long, or that have long delays between them, and
* loops where information or material is processed more than once.
This is where you can most productively apply a variety of appropriate office automation: computerized data processing, automated faxing, more and better copier capabilities, better telephone systems, or whatever other devices will help smooth the flow of business operations
through this part of the organization.
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About the author: This complimentary resource is (c) 1995 by
Robert Moskowitz, who is available for consulting, speaking and strategic planning on a wide variety of white-collar productivity and technology issues. You can reach him at (818) 224-4224, fax (818) 224-4343, email:
Robertam@ix.netcom.com or by mail to Box 6375, Woodland Hills, CA 91365.
