Process mapping is valuable because it helps people understand the business context for the work they do. SIPOC diagram is one tool that can help you do this.
Get a free PowerPoint SIPOC Diagram template. To get the template, join the Project Management Resource Library. You will also find many other free templates, checklists, guides, and templates for project management.
What is a SIPOC diagram?
SIPOC Example
1. Suppliers
2. Inputs
3. Processes
4. Outputs
5. Customers
Why use SIPOC?
SIPOC and Six Sigma
SIPOC Creation
Limitations of SIPOC
Next steps
SIPOC can be used to map the process of a major civil engineering project or to understand the customer journeys through your small business. It is a visual process mapping tool that allows you to see the whole picture and identify the people involved. This is especially useful if you are planning to change a process.
But what is the point? Continue reading…
What is a SIPOC diagram?
A SIPOC (pronounced: sigh-pok), diagram is a simple way to record an end-to-end business process.
SIPOC stands as:
Suppliers
Inputs
Process
Outputs
Customers
It is a visual process mapping technique that creates clarity before getting into the deeper business processes.
It’s a great way to get everyone on the exact same page before you begin mapping the details. The result is a SIPOC diagram which shows the process at a high level.
SIPOC Example
Here’s an example of a generic SIPOC that will give you an idea about what the final result should look like.
This is the editable template that you can find in the free resource library. You can click over to join us there. It’s great for creating flip charts! At the top, write the name of your process.
Table format is a great option if you don’t have the time to create a complicated diagram. You can also download my SIPOC template, which is an editable PowerPoint file that will give you a head start.
Let’s take a closer look at the SIPOC template and show you how to put it together for your project.
1. Suppliers
Every process begins with the suppliers of inputs: The people who provide the material that allows the process to move forward.
Your staff (all departments involved) and customers are examples of typical suppliers. Third-party suppliers may also be available to provide additional information.
Let’s take, for example, the registration process for a company website. The web hosting company might be a supplier.
These are your project stakeholders in project management terms.
Action: Create a list of people who provide information, services, or other inputs to the process.
(All these actions should be done in collaboration with your team. Although you might create a strawman sample to show off during meetings, the final version must be created together.
2. Inputs
The inputs are the things that are needed by the process. These inputs are converted into the customer’s requirements during the process.
The technical environment, raw materials and information are all examples of typical inputs. For example, if you create an account on a website, inputs could include credit card details, customer names, address, and so forth.
Tip: Don’t forget to include external inputs, things that you get from other teams and other projects.
Action: Make a list with all the inputs for this process.
3. Processes
This step is where you define the high-level process. Now you know who and what is involved in making this process successful. Now, you need to plan the five to seven major steps.
These should be at a very high level. This is not a detailed step-by-step guide. It is meant to give an idea of the basic flow.
This would be your Level 1 process. This gives you the foundation to create a detailed process map or flow chart later.