Deciphering Flowchart Symbols: Unlock the Secrets of Visual Communication

calendar Feb 3, 2023 · 3 min read · flowcharts symbols meanings visual communication  ·
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Introduction

Flowcharts are a vital tool for visual communication, used by businesses, organizations, and individuals to convey complex information in a simple and organized manner. According to a study, 62% of companies use flowcharts to improve their workflow and decision-making processes. However, to fully harness the power of flowcharts, it's essential to understand the meanings behind the various symbols used. In this article, we'll delve into the world of flowchart symbols, exploring their meanings and applications.

Flowchart Symbols: The Basics

At the heart of every flowchart lies a set of standardized symbols, each with its unique meaning. There are three primary types of symbols:

  • Process: represented by a rectangle, indicates a specific task or action.
  • Decision: represented by a diamond, signifies a choice or decision that affects the flowchart's direction.
  • Data: represented by a parallelogram, denotes input or output data.

These basic symbols form the building blocks of flowcharts, allowing users to create complex diagrams that convey meaningful information.

Data Flow and Storage Symbols

In addition to the basic symbols, flowcharts often employ a range of data flow and storage symbols, including:

  • Input: represented by an arrow pointing towards a process or decision, indicates data entering the flowchart.
  • Output: represented by an arrow pointing away from a process or decision, signifies data leaving the flowchart.
  • Sort: represented by a zig-zag line, denotes data being sorted or arranged in a specific order.
  • File: represented by a cylinder, indicates data storage or retrieval.

These symbols are crucial for creating flowcharts that accurately depict data flow and management.

Control Flow and Connection Symbols

Control flow and connection symbols are used to regulate the flow of a flowchart and connect different elements, including:

  • On-page connector: represented by a circle, connects two elements on the same page.
  • Off-page connector: represented by a square, connects two elements on different pages.
  • Start: represented by a hexagon or an ellipse, marks the beginning of the flowchart.
  • End: represented by a hexagon or an ellipse, signifies the end of the flowchart.
  • Control flow: represented by arrows, determines the sequence of events in the flowchart.

These symbols enable users to create flowcharts with multiple branches, loops, and connections, ensuring a clear and logical flow of information.

Advanced Flowchart Symbols

Some flowcharts may incorporate advanced symbols, including:

  • Predefined process: represented by a dashed rectangle or an ellipse, denotes a complex process that has been pre-defined elsewhere.
  • Card: represented by a rectangle with a header and footer, indicates a physical or electronic card.
  • Tape: represented by a rectangle with a serrated edge, signifies a tape or magnetic storage device.

These advanced symbols provide additional flexibility and specificity when creating flowcharts for specialized applications.

Conclusion

Flowchart symbols are the language of visual communication, allowing users to convey complex information in a clear and concise manner. With over 70% of businesses using flowcharts to improve their workflow and decision-making processes, understanding the meanings behind these symbols is more important than ever. By mastering the basics of flowchart symbols, data flow and storage, control flow and connection, and advanced symbols, you'll be able to create effective flowcharts that unlock the secrets of visual communication.

What are your favorite flowchart symbols or applications? Share your thoughts in the comments below!