Flow Chart is important to define any business process flow. For design any flowchart you have to follow some rules that are mention in this article.

When we were in school, we were told that a flow chart is something that explains a process. It defines the steps to be performed in order to achieve a specific outcome. The definition for flow chart remains the same even to this day. Though there is a structured format for designing a flow chart, a number of them end up being sloppy and disorganized. They don’t depict the information clearly. If you wish your flowchart to be properly organized and depict the information correctly, then you should follow the design tips that I am mentioning in this article.

Orientation:

  • All flowchart readers read them by following the arrowed lines to go from one step to another. This makes it very important that you connect each shape with another and the step to step flow must be logical. 
  • According to standards, flowcharts are drawn from top to bottom or left to right. Any change in this standard may confuse the viewer.

Lines and Arrows:

  • When it comes to lines, you should use a narrow line width for drawing lines and outline shapes. Flowchart makers usually use a thicker line which is easier to read on screen and also from the back of the room.
  • Line widths and arrow types must be consistent throughout the flowchart. As a rule, don’t use more than two line width throughout your flowchart and avoid using more than 1 arrow type.

Color:

  • In a single flowchart, go for three or fewer colors. The same thing applies for text, line, background, and shape color.
  • It is good to use primary colors for flowcharts. With a flowchart maker, you can try using three complementary colors if you are unsure about the hues.
  • For a clean and modern diagram, you can go for a single unified color for both lines and shapes. It is a great option when you are designing simple flowcharts.
  • Avoid transparencies, gradients, and shadows, if your diagram is going to be presented on a projector as these may not show up.

Shapes:

  • To emphasize, you can include a larger shape. You can also place shapes above smaller steps to reiterate a specific point.
  • Aligning your shapes and lines does the best to your flowchart. An aligned chart looks great and is much easier to read.

Text:

  • Select one font family for each flowchart
  • Don’t always go for bold and italicized text for emphasis. You can try changing shape size for this.
  • Though custom fonts, enhance the look of the design, you must ensure that they are legible. Flowchart makers usually utilize a Sans Serif font for digital viewing and Serif for print.
  • Text must always be placed horizontally

Following these tips can help you design an effective flowchart. However, using a flow chart maker can definitely help you make things easy and get the best flowchart design.

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