Adopting a process approach to manage system and process change helps to:

• clarify roles, responsibilities and ways of working
• identify opportunities for improvement
• mitigate risks

It is a key principle of ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems.

For me, illustrating high-level processes as workflows/flowcharts is an ideal starting point for all types of projects.  Beneficial when developing new systems and processes, by reflecting current ways of working (‘As Is’) and future activities (‘To Be’).  Also, supporting effective change management, with stakeholder engagement, communication and training. 

Designed with users in mind, workflows can be engaging, user-friendly and a helpful reference.  Effectively communicating processes by displaying a sequence of activities, dependencies and people involved.  They can be created fairly simply and easily using familiar Microsoft Office tools, or by using specific applications. 

In general use, referencing workflows can make it easier to see and address business risks and opportunities, nagging problems and convoluted processes.  They can also complement training programmes and raise business awareness in new starter inductions or be a valuable resource to those who are not as close to the detail on a day-to-day basis. 

Visual representations of processes can be very impactful.  Distilling information clearly and concisely, in a digestible manner, so that the information can be more easily understood and retained.

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If you you like to know more about Quality Management Systems (QMS) and ISO 9001, feel free to send a DM to: Aniela Tallentire   or  Tallentire Consultancy Ltd. 

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Also, A SIMPLE GUIDE TO QMS & ISO 9001 On-Demand Video Training Course is available (including Project Plan, Document Templates and Weekly Group Coaching Calls), providing a straightforward and practical approach to understanding and implementing a QMS to ISO 9001 standards. Benefitting from expertise to accelerate the implementation process and avoid some common pitfalls.