Process - the actions that move us forward
Our days are filled with decisions. At their most elementary level, each decision is a piece of a bigger process. That is, every action we take is based on a decision. Both the decision and the action can be represented by descriptive terms. And any action can be broken down into a representation of its process(es).
The act of sustaining our fuel flow can be represented thus;
We partake of an initial meal in the morning, and then schedule more throughout the day in accordance with needs, tradition, and options. This is the "as is" of our fuel intake.
However, once documented, we can look at the boxes individually, examine the options, ascribe preferences, timelines, priorities, or any other suitable attribute to them, then change, or reprogram the diagram to suit the desired end;
or
The symbols can be invented and the process can be seen at a level that allows understanding and/or manipulation.
This mapping of processes can be helpful in developing the outline of a business - its procedures as they relate to the business community, its customer base, or regulatory bodies. Any single flow – a piece of paperwork that is filled out by a customer can be followed through the business until it’s finished its purpose, a required data flow can be watched to see if there are potential problem spots.
A process can be mapped in order to train people to perform the process itself.
Then there is creativity. It’s my choice to use these tools to help those in creative situations where the act of viewing process flow is not traditionally an acceptable solution. The mapping of procedures and forward motion can be viewed as stifling in some instances. Creative minds are often jealous of the process piece of their success. Rightly so. The freedom to alter process and experiment with all parameters of creative motion is one of the sacred trusts of creativity.
But the act of capturing the creative mind at work and representing moments or methods where change can occur is not a threat to the process, but an illumination of the interior of its heart, or mind. A map of ideas that creates room for more ideas.