Flowchart Is: Function, Type, Symbol, and Examples

Flowchart is one of the visual tools that is often used in various fields, especially in programming and business processes. By utilizing certain symbols, flowcharts are able to describe the workflow or process systematically and easily understood. This article will explain in depth about the meaning of flowcharts , their types, functions, symbols, and examples.

Understanding Flowcharts

A flowchart is a graphical representation of a process or workflow that is systematically arranged using certain symbols. Flowcharts serve to explain the steps or sequence of activities in completing a task or problem.

In the context of programming, flowcharts are used to illustrate the logic of a program before it is written in code. This helps programmers understand the flow of program logic in a more structured way.

Flowcharts are also useful in the business world to illustrate work processes, facilitate collaboration between teams, and identify potential bottlenecks in the system.

Flowchart Functions

Here are some of the main functions of a flowchart:

1. Simplifying Process Understanding
   With flowcharts, complex work processes can be described in a simpler way, making them easier for all parties to understand.
2. Flowchart Process Documentation
   serves as clear and structured documentation of how a process is carried out.
3. Helping with Problem Solving
   When faced with a problem, flowcharts help analyze the steps in the process to find the cause of the problem.
4. Inter-Team Communication
   With clear visualization, flowcharts facilitate communication between team members or between departments.
5. Flowchart Efficiency and Optimization
   allows the identification of inefficient steps, so that the process can be optimized.

Types of Flowcharts

Flowcharts have various types according to their usage needs. Here are some types of flowcharts along with their explanations:

1. Document Flowchart

A document flowchart illustrates the flow of documents or information within a system. It is usually used to track administrative processes or documents moving from one section to another.

2. Program Flowchart

Program flowchart is used to describe the logic or algorithm of a computer program. This type is often used by programmers before writing program code.

3. Process Flowchart

Process flowcharts show the steps in a process in detail. This type is usually used in manufacturing or industry to monitor production flow.

4. System Flowchart

A system flowchart illustrates the relationships between components in a system. It is used to provide an overview of how the system works.

5. Schematic Flowchart

Schematic flowcharts show the relationships between components with more focus on technical design. They are commonly used in engineering to visualize the relationships between hardware or software.

Flowchart Symbols

Flowcharts use various symbols to represent specific steps or activities. Here are some flowchart symbols and their functions:

Each symbol has a specific meaning and function, the most important basis for creating a program is understanding the meaning and use of this symbol.

Flowchart Example

To create a simple flowchart you are required to know each symbol and its function. Well, below I will give an example of a simple flowchart to determine whether the number entered is odd or even. Here is an example:

Discussion:

1. First, the user inputs data in the form of integer values.
2. Then the entered value is processed by dividing it by the number 2.
3. If the remainder is equal to 0, it means the number entered is an even number.
4. If the remainder is not equal to 0, it means the number entered is an odd number.
5. Finished.

Conclusion

Flowcharts are very useful visual tools for depicting processes or workflows in an easy-to-understand manner. By utilizing standard symbols, flowcharts help to simplify understanding, increase efficiency, and systematically document processes.

Through various types of flowcharts such as document, program, process, system, and schematic flowcharts , we can adjust their use according to needs. Understanding flowchart symbols and functions is also an important part of making it.

By studying flowcharts, whether for programming, business, or systems analysis, we can optimize the way we work and solve problems more effectively.

References: dicoding.com , dewaweb.com , jagoanhosting.com .

Author: Yazid Yusuf – Directorate of Information Technology Center