Tool 148: Process Decision Program Chart (PDPC)

Step-by-step procedure

• STEP 1 The team refers to a previously completed data collection and analysis. This data source can be a tree diagram, matrix diagram, a problem specification, or some other tool reference.

• STEP 2 The next step is to construct a PDPC chart as outlined in the example Conversion of an Assembly Line to Work Cells .

• STEP 3 First, list the project goal, followed by a lower level of primary activities detailed further into required tasks . Ensure that all activities have been considered from the data source.

• STEP 4 For each task or requirement, ask what-ifs. See example What if there is an interruption in production output? What if there is equipment downtime?

• STEP 5 For every what-if, consider what countermeasures can be taken. Connect what-ifs and countermeasures to the tasks to complete the chart. Designate countermeasures as practical and feasible = 0, or impractical and difficult = X.

• STEP 6 Review the chart, make revisions if needed, and provide date of issue.

Example of tool application

Tool 149: Process Flowchart

Tool description

A process flowchart illustrates the major activities, sequence, and flow connections of a work process or project. The flowchart helps a team gain a common understanding of the overall process and its interrelationships. The flowchart can be used to identify problem areas, document a process, or serve as a planning tool for process improvement.

Typical application

• To illustrate the flow or process steps in manufacturing a product, providing a service, or managing a project.

• To provide a common understanding of a complex process.

• To recommend an improved process to the process owner.

Problem-solving phase

	Select and define problem or opportunity
	Identify and analyze causes or potential change
	Develop and plan possible solutions or change
	Implement and evaluate solution or change
	Measure and report solution or change results
	Recognize and reward team efforts

Typically used by

	Research/statistics
	Creativity/innovation
2	Engineering
5	Project management
3	Manufacturing
	Marketing/sales
	Administration/documentation
4	Servicing/support
	Customer/quality metrics
1	Change management

links to other tools

before

• Information Needs Analysis

• Systems Analysis Diagram

• Variance Analysis

• Problem Analysis

• Pareto Chart

after

• Process Mapping

• Problem Specification

• Opportunity Analysis

• Work Flow Analysis (WFA)

• Action Plan

Notes and key points

• Legend for process flow chart symbols:

  

Step-by-step procedure

• STEP 1 As a first step, the team facilitator assembles a team whose participants thoroughly understand all aspects of the process. See Example Reengineering Human Resources .

• STEP 2 The overall scope of the process flowchart is determined. A starting and stopping point is identified.

• STEP 3 Next, participants identify all major process steps and the sequence of completion. Reviews, delays, documents, reports , and other important activities are recorded on another flipchart.

• STEP 4 The facilitator uses a whiteboard to start drawing the process flowchart. The participants assist the facilitator in drawing and connecting all process steps in the correct sequence.

• STEP 5 Depending on the level of detail agreed upon, additional information can be noted along with the process steps, as shown in the example.

• STEP 6 Finally, the process flowchart is verified for accuracy and dated.

Example of tool application

Reengineering Human Resources