Flowchart shapes

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Flowchart shapes

Flowchart shapes represent various types of actions, decisions, and processes in a flowchart, providing visual cues and organization to the flow of logic. These shapes follow industry-standard symbols to ensure clarity and consistency in flowchart designs.

What does Flowchart shapes mean?

Flowchart shapes are standard symbols used to visually represent different types of actions, decisions, and data flow in a flowchart. Each shape has a unique meaning and purpose, allowing users to create clear and concise diagrams That illustrate complex processes.

Common flowchart shapes include:

  • Process: A rectangular shape that represents a single step or activity in a process.
  • Decision: A diamond-shaped shape that represents a decision point where a process can branch into different paths.
  • Connector: A small circle or square that indicates the continuation of a process from One page to another.
  • Terminator: A rounded rectangle that indicates the start or end of a process.
  • Input/Output: A parallelogram shape that represents input or output data to or from a process.
  • Connector: A line or arrow that connects flowchart shapes and indicates the flow of data or control.

Applications

Flowchart shapes are essential for creating effective flowcharts, Which are valuable tools in various technological applications:

  • Software development: To Model and document software designs, algorithms, and business processes.
  • Business process mapping: To analyze and optimize business processes for efficiency and clarity.
  • System analysis: To understand complex systems and identify potential areas for improvement.
  • Technical documentation: To provide clear and concise instructions for using and maintaining technical systems.
  • Project management: To plan and visualize project schedules, milestones, and dependencies.

History

The origins of flowchart shapes can be traced back to the early 20th century. In 1921, Frank Gilbreth developed a set of symbols to represent different steps in work processes, which became the basis for Modern flowchart shapes.

In the 1940s, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) standardized flowchart symbols, and in the 1950s, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) created a comprehensive set of flowchart symbols that are still widely used today.

Over the years, flowchart shapes have evolved to accommodate new technologies and methodologies. For example, specialized shapes have been developed for use in object-oriented programming and business process modeling.

Today, flowchart shapes are an indispensable part of the technology landscape, providing a universal language for visualizing and communicating complex processes across different domains and industries.