Write the normal path

Start with a trigger and end with a verifiable output. List the systems and people involved in between. Use verbs that describe actual actions: receive, check, assign, review, update.

Add the decisions

For each branch, state the question, the data needed to answer it, the person or rule responsible, and the next step. If you cannot explain a branch clearly, mark it for clarification.

Add the exceptions

Include duplicates, missing information, connection failures, and conflicting records. Give each exception an owner and a visible place to wait. Define a safe manual route.

Use the downloadable canvas

The plain-text canvas contains the same prompts and can be completed without uploading business information. Keep the completed document in a location your team controls.

THE PRACTICAL TAKEAWAY

A workflow map should be useful to the person who will maintain the process.

Download the workflow canvas
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