Flowchart Meaning

A flow chart is known as a graph that presents a computer system, process or algorithm .Flow charts are used in various fields to study, plan, document, communicate or improve complex processes A flow chart makes it easy to present this process in a clear and simplified way.

This type of graph uses different geometric figures to represent the graphical process .It also uses arrows that connect those figures establishing a certain sequence or flow between them.Flowcharts can be done manually if they are simple or by computer if they are more complex and exhaustive.

Flowcharts are one of the most used and common graphics , also not only technicians use them. They can be known by other names apart from flowcharts , some examples are: Process map, process flow chart, functional flow chart, among others s.

A flowchart is a graph that presents a complex process in a simplified way.

Historically, the use of flowcharts is recorded during the decade of 1920-1930.This type of chart was originally used to record business processes .It was in 1921 that some industrial engineers presented a process flow diagram at the ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers).

This first flow chart served as inspiration over time to present improvements in business.They also served to present in a simplified way a job or project .Later, the director Standard Register Industrial modified and adapted this graph to use it in the information processing.

During the year 1947, the ASME proposed a series of symbols that were included to enrich the original flowchart.In this decade, some computer mathematicians used the flowchart to develop computer programs.The use of this graphic in the field of computer science became increasingly popular.

Structure of a flowchart

As it is a graph that presents a process with its different sequences, the flow chart uses different symbols .A rectangle represents a process, a rectangle with oval tips is a terminal, a rhombus is a decision.An unfinished rectangle is a document and an inclined rectangle is used to mark data.

The arrows mark the process flows and the necessary annotations are marked in square brackets.A cylinder represents a database, while a circle can be a connector or a reference.flag indicates a connector or external reference to the page.

In the field of informatics, flow charts are ideal for presenting an algorithm or computer program .Through this graph it is much easier to present data and explain it to colleagues.Flowchart can present the idea and logic that such a program or algorithm will have before coding it.

In addition, the flowchart serves as a map or guide to follow when coding said program or algorithm.A flowchart makes it possible to show how a code is organized, how it works or the final structure of it.Also can be used in other fields besides informatics to register all kinds of processes .