COLLEGE OF COMPUTER, INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY

1. What are the advantages of using flow chart?

A flow chart is a graphical or symbolic representation of a process. Each step in the process is
represented by a different symbol and contains a short description of the process step. The flow
chart symbols are linked together with arrows showing the process flow direction.

Process flowcharts have a variety of advantages that can bring tremendous value to your operation.
These advantages include the following:

 Communication – Process flowcharts are commonly utilized by industrial engineers and

individuals involved with process improvement. This tool allows you to communicate processes and
potential problems on the floor in a way that management can understand, thus pushing them to
potentially change up the process or implement new equipment. Communication is key when it comes
to process flow charts, because it can turn a complicated procedure into a simplistic visual that allows
management to understand the overall scope of the process and issues associated with it.

 Analysis – With the help of flowcharts, issues on the floor are able to be analyzed in a much
more effective manner that showcases potential areas of cost reduction and time allocation. This is
beneficial in the sense that you can take a look at steps that may be able to be combined or rearranged,
leading to reduced waste and more output per hour. Process flowcharts are an advantageous method in
being able to analyze the process and ultimately looking for areas of improvement.

  Adequate Documentation – Flowcharts are an advantageous method of document processes

on the floor that everyone is able to understand and ultimately can be utilized in various departments.
As everyone is able to understand these flowcharts, there is more of an incentive to clean processes up
through process step elimination and efficiency enhancement. Being able to document the process,
explain why the process is the way that it is, and have it on hand is a substantial advantage to your
facility.

The advantageous pertaining to flowcharts seems to be endless. Unfortunately, with every pro there is a
con, in which there are disadvantages associated with flowcharts.

Flowchart Advantages

 Flowcharts are easier to understand compare to Algorithms and Pseudo code.

 It helps us to understand Logic of given problem.
 It is very easy to draw flowchart in any word processing software like MS Word.
 Using only very few symbol, complex problem can be represented in flowchart.
 Software like RAPTOR can be used to check correctness of flowchart drawn in computers.
 Flowcharts are one of the good ways of documenting programs.
 It helps us in debugging process. 
 Advantages and limitations of flowcharts

Advantages

 Better Communication : A flowchart is a pictorial representation of a program. Hence, it is

easier for a programmer to explain the logic of a program to some others.
 Proper program documentation : Program documentation involves collecting, organizing,
storing and otherwise maintaining a complete historical record of programs, and the other
documents associated with a system.
 Efficient coding : Once a flowchart is ready, programmers find it very easy to write the
corresponding program, because the flowchart acts as a road map for them.
 Systematic debugging : A flowchart is very helpful in detecting, locating and removing
mistakes ( bugs) in a program in a systematic manner, because programmers find it easier to
follow the logic of the program in flowchart form.
 Systematic testing : Testing is the process of confirming whether a program will successfully
do all the jobs for which it has been designed under the specified constraints.

One of the first things to ask when making a flowchart is, "what is its purpose?" The answer to this
question will help you create the type of flowchart that best suits your needs.

Some of the common uses of flowcharts include:

 Planning a new project
 Documenting a process
 Modeling a business process
 Managing workflow
 
 Auditing a process
 Mapping computer algorithms
 Data management
 Chemical and process engineering
Once the use of the flowchart is known, the next step is to select the best type of diagram to represent
it. This could be a basic flowchart, a swimlane flowchart, a value stream map, or any of several other
types.
 2. What are the limitations of using flowcharts?

A few of the disadvantages pertaining to flowcharts include the following:

 Alterations – Alterations can become a hassle when using flowcharts. This is due to the fact that
when there are alterations to the process or whenever a process needs to be changed, you will more
than likely have to redraw the entire flowchart, which results in wasted time and money. By far, this is
the most substantial drawback pertaining to process flowcharts.

   Logic Complexity – When a process is relatively complex, this can make a process flowchart
look messy and clumsy. This will make it difficult for management to understand and could be a waste of
time as you attempt to pinpoint areas of waste within a certain process or area. This is why it is
important to take a look at the process and see if there are any steps that can be included together or
simplified.

 Reproduction of a Flowchart – The last major drawback pertaining to flowcharts is that

flowchart symbols cannot be typed. You will have to use Word, Excel, or some other software that
allows you to create shapes and plug words into them. This makes recreating flowcharts rather difficult,
considering that they require shapes.

"Limitations of using Flowcharts

(1) Complex Logic : Sometimes, the program logic is quite complicated. In that case, flowchart
becomes complex and clumsy.
(2) Alterations and Modifications : If alterations are required the flowchart may require re-
drawing completely.
(3) Reproduction : As the flowchart symbols cannot be typed, reproduction of flowchart
becomes a problem.
(4) The essentials of what is done can easily be lost in the technical details of how it is done. 

Limitations

 Flowcharts are very time consuming and laborious to draw with proper symbols and spacing,
especially for large complex programs.
 Owing to the symbol –string nature of flowcharting any changes or modifications in the
program logic will usually require a completely new flowchart.
 There are no standards determining the amount of detail that should be included in
the flowchart.

 There are 3 basic programming constructs, they are

 (A) Sequential
 (B) Selection
 (C) Iteration
 3. Enumerate some applications in using flowchart.
The most common flowchart types are:
 Process flowchart
 Swimlane Flowchart
 Workflow Diagram
 Data Flow Diagram
 
 EPC Diagram
 SDL Diagram
 Process Map
 Process Flow Diagram
Types of Flowcharts
Planning a New Project | Basic Process Flowchart
One of the most frequent uses of flowcharts is to map out a new project. Engineers and software
designers often use flowcharts for this purpose, but others may find them useful, as well. They are
particularly helpful when the project will involve a sequence of steps that involve decisions. Here's a
basic flowchart that shows this:

Documenting a Process Across Functional Groups | What is a Swimlane Flowchart

Businesses often have internal or external requirements for process documentation. Flowcharts are an
excellent tool for these purposes. From standards reporting to complying with government regulations,
using a flowchart can be much more efficient than a written narrative.
Here are some examples of external pressures that require process documentation:
 BPM Automation: Documenting processes is a prerequisite for automated BPM (Business
Process Management).
 ERP: Documenting processes is required as part of an Enterprise Resource Planning
implementation.
 Company Sale: Documenting processes is an important preparation when positioning a company
for eventual sale.
 Compliance: Various legislation and regulatory bodies, like the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and the Joint
Commission, for example, often require extensive process documentation.
  Customers: Some customers may require ISO or other quality certifications as a prerequisite for
doing business.
There may also be internal reasons for using flowcharts to document processes.
 Flexibility: Both new and existing employees can immediately learn the right way to perform any
job.
 Quality: If everyone on the team performs a job in the same way each time, the outcome is
predictable and consistent.
 Visibility: Management can see exactly how each job is meant to be performed.
 Process Improvement: You can't improve the way your organization gets its work done unless
you know how it's being done now.
A basic flowchart will often suffice for process documentation. However, in cases where processes have
multiple stages, work across departments, or have other separated categories a swimlane flowchart or
cross-functional flowchart may be the better choice. It visually separates the process into separate
categories.

Managing Workflow | What is a Workflow Process

Systems for managing workflow are best illustrated using a workflow diagram. These systems can focus
on process integration, human task orientation, or both. The goal is to create a consistent, quality
output based on a standardized set of procedures. Here is an example of a simple workflow diagram:

Making a Decision | What is a Decision Flowchart

A decision flowchart lets you visualize the options in any important business decision. Walk through
potential outcomes and make sure you consider all the questions before making a decision.
Modeling a Business Process | What is an EPC Diagram
Business processes can cover a wide range of activities. They might be a simple set of tasks or a complex
array of them that cover a number of possible situations. Modeling these processes is done to ensure a
consistent, predictable outcome. Documenting or modeling a business process is using an event-driven
process chain (EPC) diagram. A basic example is shown here:
The EPC diagram is a specialized type of flowchart designed specifically for this purpose. It has a unique
library of symbols not found in traditional flowcharts. Learn more about event-driven process chain
diagrams.

Auditing a Process | Process Map

Flowcharts may be used for diagnosing a malfunction or to troubleshoot problems. These uses are
common in the fields of software and electronics. But they aren't confined to just these disciplines.
Business organizations also use flowcharts for process improvement. Breaking down processes into
smaller steps, then examining them closely can reveal areas of both operating inefficiency and
opportunity for improvement.
A process map is a detailed flowchart that is a useful tool for auditing a process. There are four steps
used in creating a process map:
1. Identifying and understanding the steps in a process.
2. Gathering information to identify the objectives, risks and controls in a process.
3. Interviewing the individuals involved and creating the process map.
4. Analyzing and effecting changes to improve the process.

Mapping Computer Algorithms | SDL Diagram

Brainstorming computer algorithms is often accomplished using an SDL diagram. SDL stands for
Specification and Description Language. This is a flowchart that offers a unique set of symbols that are
used to map out real-time systems. The three basic components of an SDL diagram are the system
definition, the block, and the process.
One of the reasons that flowcharts are used frequently for program and network design is that they also
offer a good resource for internal problem solving. They are also a great way to show customers how to
troubleshoot common problems, because they are visual and are easy to follow, when presented
properly.

Data Management | Data Flow Diagram

Data flow diagrams (DFD) are an efficient way of bridging the communication gap between system
developers and users. They are specialized flowcharts that distill a substantial amount of information
into a relatively few symbols and connectors.

Chemical and Process Engineering | Process Flow Diagram

A process flow diagram (PFD) is a technical illustration also known as a flowsheet. It is used to exhibit
high-level processes in chemical and process engineering. The PFD will focus on major plant processes
but not show minor details. This type of diagram is used for a wide range of engineering applications.
 Oil and petroleum refining
 Natural gas systems
 Green energy, such as wind and solar power
 Water treatment and processes
 Electrical power plants
 Piping and irrigation systems
A flowsheet or PFD that details multiple processes is often called a block diagram or a schematic flow
diagram.
Five Apps

1. 1888 Quick Flow Chart Creator

1888 Quick Flow Chart Creator is a free flow chart application. This particular application doesn't
really measure up to the paid applications, but it will get the job done.

The program provides a series of flow chart symbols that you can place on the screen and connect to
one another. You also have the ability to change the color of the symbols or add text to them.

The program is fine for creating a basic flow chart, but it isn't really conducive to high precision work.
There don't seem to be any tools to help you line up the objects that you place on the screen, so
producing a clean looking flow chart can take a bit of practice. The software could also benefit from
some better documentation, as it took me a few minutes to figure out how to use some of the features.

2. WizFlow Flowcharter
WizFlow Flowcharter is a very basic flow charting application that seems to work really well. This
program starts off by asking you to choose a color pallet, font, etc. After doing so, you are presented
with a screen containing a series of objects that you can drag and drop to create your flowchart.

I found the interface to be very intuitive, but admittedly, it took me a few tries to get the hang of object
placement. The process wasn't difficult, it was just a little bit different from what I was used to. All things
considered, this application is probably a good choice for those who need basic flow charting
capabilities.

WizFlow Flowcharter sells for $69.95, but a free 30-day trial is available.
3. RFFlow
RFFlow is everything that a flow charting application should be. The utility is fast, efficient, and intuitive.
It makes light work of object placement and a popup takes all of the guess work out of adding text to an
object. The program also makes it simple to resize, move, or delete objects that you have already
created. The software even includes templates that you can use to create various other types of charts.

RFFlow sells for $49.00, but a free trial version is available for download.

4. Novagraph Chartist
Novagraph Chartist is a relatively powerful tool for creating flow charts and other types of charts (such
as organizational charts). Although there is a bit of a learning curve associated with using this tool, it is at
least somewhat intuitive. More importantly, the tool is jam packed with features and should be able to
accommodate even the most demanding flow charting requirements.

Novagraph Chartist sells for $49.00, but a free trial version is available for download.

5. Microsoft Visio Professional 2013

Microsoft Visio Professional 2013 is the flow chart application that I personally use for my day to day
work. The main reason why I use Visio is because it's built in network diagramming tools are extremely
helpful for some of the books and articles that I write.

When it comes to creating flow charts (as opposed to network diagrams or other types of diagrams),
Visio is easy to use. It behaves much like other Microsoft Office applications, such as Word or Publisher.
Visio allows you to drag and drop objects to build your flow chart.

In all honesty, Visio performs almost identically to RFFlow, which costs a small fraction of what Visio
costs. If you only need to create flow charts, you are probably better off getting RFFlow than Visio.
However, if you need to be able to create a wide variety of chart types then Visio is an excellent
application choice.

Microsoft Visio Professional 2013 sells for $589.99.

4. Enumerate Flowchart symbols with its name and meaning.

1. Start and end symbol

This symbol is also referred to as the terminator symbol as it represents starting and end points, as well
as potential outcomes of a process path. The start and end symbols will be an elongated oval shape.

2. Process symbol

This common symbol is shaped as a rectangle, and it can also be called the action symbol. It represents
an action, function or process and can be considered one of the most-used flowchart symbols.

3. Document symbol

This symbol is shaped like a rectangle with its bottom side in a wave, and it is used to represent the
input or output of a document. For instance, this symbol might be used to outline a document input,
such as receiving an email or report. Similarly, it can be used to represent a document output like
producing a presentation or project.

4. Connector symbol

These symbols are little circles used to connect separate elements of a flowchart across a whole page.
Connectors are typically used in flowcharts with more complex processes, such as software or
application development.

5. Decision symbol

Shaped as a rhombus, this symbol is used to indicate a question that results in a "yes" or "no" answer, as
well as a possible "true" or "false" situation. Depending on the answer to the proposed question, the
flowchart can then split into various branches to complete the outline of the workflow.

Read more: A Guide to Bubble Charts

6. Off-page connector or link symbol

This symbol looks like an upside-down pentagon and is oftentimes used in more complex flowcharts to
connect the separate elements of multiple pages. There can be a page number within each shape,
allowing for easier reference.

7. Input and output symbol

This symbol is used to represent any data that can be available for input and output. Also referred to as
the data symbol, this shape can also be used to represent the resources used or produced. Shaped as a
parallelogram, it may sometimes be substituted with the paper tape symbol.

8. Comment or note symbol

This symbol is the common brace { } and is placed with additional information or comments in a
specified range. It may also be connected by a dashed line to various related sections of the flowchart.

9. Multiple documents symbol

Conversely to the document symbol, this symbol represents more than one document in the flowchart.
It has the same meaning as the document symbol, with the addition of more documents or reports that
may be needed for the workflow.

10. Predefined process symbol

This symbol may only be used in complex flowcharts and indicates a process, operation or function that
has already been defined.

11. Database symbol

This cylinder-shaped flowchart symbol represents the data that is stored on a storage service that can
allow for user searches and filters. For instance, the data need to run a real estate app can be housed
within a storage service for users to search and filter results by price, location and other search criteria.

12. Stored data symbol

Also referred to as the data storage symbol, this flowchart symbol represents where the data is stored
within a workflow process. For instance, a software developer producing a new program for accounting
might use this symbol to represent the specific location of various financial data within different
calculation processes.

13. Paper tape symbol

This symbol, shaped as a waving flag, is one of the more complex flowchart symbols and is most likely to
be used in rare cases, such as mapping the processes or specific input data for CNC machines and older
computers.

14. Internal storage symbol

This symbol is commonly used in flowcharts that outline software designs and can indicate the data
stored within the internal memory system.

Related: A Guide to Stacked Bar Charts

15. Manual input symbol

This flowchart symbol is used to represent manual input of data, such as a step in a process or typing
data into a field or form. For instance, if you sign up for a new email account, the login fields would
require you to enter your data manually. This symbol is used to represent this process in the software
development flowchart.

16. Manual operation symbol

This flowchart symbol is shaped as a trapezoid and is used to represent each step of a process that must
be completed manually rather than automatically.

17. Summing junction symbol

Shaped much like a railroad sign—that is, a circle with an "X" in it—this flowchart symbol sums up the
input of several converging process paths.

18. Or symbol

Similar to the summing junction symbol, the or symbol is used to indicate where a workflow process
takes more than one path.

19. Merge symbol

This triangle shape is used to symbolize the merging of multiple paths into one single process path.

20. Preparation symbol

The preparation symbol is used to differentiate between the steps for preparing the work and the steps
that take action to complete the work. It may also be used to outline the setup to other steps that make
up the same process.

21. Delay symbol

A half-oval in appearance, this symbol is used to indicate a delay within a process. Oftentimes,
programmers will use this symbol when developing software to indicate the length of the delay within
the process.

Read more: Documentation in the Workplace

22. Display symbol

This symbol is used in a flowchart to show where data or information will be displayed within the
process.

23. Hard disk symbol

This symbol is also referred to as a direct access storage symbol and is shaped like a cylinder on its side.
It is used to show where data is stored on a hard drive.

24. Collate symbol

This symbol looks like a triangular hourglass, and it is used to show a step that orders data and
information into standard formats.

25. Sort symbol

A flowchart symbol that looks like a bisected kite, the sort symbol is used to indicate a step in a process
that organizes lists of items into sets or sequences determined by specific criteria.

26. Manual loop symbol

This symbol is used to show a set of commands or prompts that will repeat continuously until the
processes are ceased manually.

27. Loop limit symbol

The converse to the manual loop symbol, this flowchart shape indicates the stopping point of the
process loop.

28. Subroutine symbol

This flowchart symbol indicates a sequenced set of actions that perform specific, smaller tasks that are
part of a larger process. Oftentimes, this symbol may indicate that there is a more detailed description
of the outlined sequence within a separate flowchart.
5. Give example problem and write an algorithm and flowchart.

Q1. Create a program to compute the volume of a sphere. Use the formula: V = (4/3)
*pi*r3 where pi is equal to 3.1416 approximately. The r is the radius of sphere.  Display the
result.

Q2. Write a program the converts the input Celsius degree into its equivalent Fahrenheit degree.
Use the formula: F = (9/5) *C+32.

Q3. Write a program that converts the input dollar to its peso exchange rate equivalent.  Assume
that the present exchange rate is 51.50 pesos against the dollar. Then display the peso equivalent
exchange rate.
Q4. Write a program that converts an input inch(es) into its equivalent centimeters. Take note
that one inch is equivalent to 2.54cms.

Q5. Write a program that exchanges the value of two variables: x and y.  The output must be:
the value of variable y will become the value of variable x, and vice versa.

Q6. Design a program to find the circumference of a circle. Use the formula: C=2πr, where π is
approximately equivalent 3.1416.
Q7. Write a program that takes as input the purchase price of an item (P), its expected number of
years of service (Y) and its expected salvage value (S). Then outputs the yearly depreciation for the
item (D). Use the formula: D = (P – S) Y.

Q8. Swapping of 2 variables without using temporary (or 3 rd variable).

Q9. Determine the most economical quantity to be stocked for each product that a
manufacturing company has in its inventory: This quantity, called economic order quantity
(EOQ) is calculated as follows: EOQ=2rs/1 where: R= total yearly production requirement S=set
up cost per order I=inventory carrying cost per unit.
 Q10. Write a program to compute the radius of a circle. Derive your formula from the given
equation: A=πr², then display the output.

6. Based on the research, provide your understanding on the topic.

My understanding on the topic are

Flow charts are easy-to-understand diagrams that show how the steps of a process fit together.
American engineer Frank Gilbreth is widely believed to be the first person to document a process flow,
having introduced the concept of a "Process Chart" to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers in
1921.

Flow charts tend to consist of four main symbols, linked with arrows that show the direction of flow:
1. Elongated circles, which signify the start or end of a process.

2. Rectangles, which show instructions or actions.

3. Diamonds, which highlight where you must make a decision.

4. Parallelograms, which show input and output. This can include materials, services or people.

Tip:

You can use many other symbols in a flow chart but remember that these diagrams are used
for communication . If you use symbols that only a few people understand, you may fail to get your
message across. So, be sure to keep things simple 
When to Use a Flow Chart

All manner of organizations use flow charts to:

 Define a process.

 Standardize  a process.
 Communicate a process.

 Identify bottlenecks or waste  in a process.

 Solve a problem .
 Improve a process.

Why Use Flow Charts?

This tool's simplicity makes communicating and documenting a process quick and clear, so that the
process will more likely be understood and applied correctly and consistently. It can also help you to
estimate the timescale of the process, as you're better able to gauge the time needed for each
task  along the way. And you'll more likely identify who you should involve and at what stage, such as
senior management or a compliance authority.
But you can also benefit from the process of creating a flow chart itself, as you build it step by step.
You'll be able to focus on the detail of each individual stage, without feeling overwhelmed by the rest of
the process, and then "zoom out" again to see the wider picture.

How to Create a Flow Chart

Follow these four steps:

Step 1: Identify Tasks

Begin by listing all of the tasks in a process in chronological order. Ask questions such as, "What happens
next in the process?" or, "Do you need to make a decision before the next step?" or, "What approvals
are required before you move on to the next task?"

Put yourself in the shoes of the person using the process, possibly for the first time. Talk to team
members who work with the process directly, and get their opinions on where improvements could be
made. Better yet, take a hands-on approach and go through the procedure yourself, and think about the
practicalities of each stage. Use Customer Experience Mapping  if your flow chart focuses on customer
service, so that you can gain a better understanding of the process.
Step 2: Organize and Document Tasks

Next, start your flow chart by drawing the elongated circle shape and labeling it "Start."

Then, work through your whole process, and show the actions and decisions in the order that they
happen. Link them with arrows to illustrate the flow of the process.

Where you need to make a decision, draw arrows from the decision diamond to each possible solution,
and then label each arrow with the decision made. Remember to show the end of the process by using
an elongated circle labeled "Finish."

Step 3: Double-Check the Process

When you've completed your flow chart, go back to the start and try it out to make sure that you
haven't overlooked anything. Work through each step, and ask yourself whether you've represented the
sequence of actions and the decisions involved correctly. Are there more decisions to be made at certain
stages?

Then show your flow chart to other people, especially those who work directly with the process. Ask
them to test that it works and to tell you if there are any problems or omissions.

Step 4: Challenge the Flow Chart

Finally, you might want to improve the process rather than just record it. So, see whether any of the
steps that you've described are unnecessary or overly complicated. Identify any major bottlenecks , and
deal with them to improve performance.
Are there any missing steps, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, that you should add? And
have you assigned tasks and decisions to the right people or automated them where it's most
appropriate? Make any changes and then challenge the chart again.

Key Points
Flow charts are simple diagrams that map out a process, so that you can easily communicate it to other
people. You can also use them to define and analyze a process, build a step-by-step picture of it, and
then standardize or improve it.

To draw a flow chart, identify the tasks and decisions that you make during a process, and write them
down in order.

Then, arrange these steps in the flow chart format, using the appropriate symbols.

Finally, check and challenge your flow chart to make sure that it accurately represents the process, and
that it shows the most efficient way of doing the job.