Actions, steps and connectors are represented in Flowcharts by specific symbols, lines and arrows. A set of standard symbols and layout have been designed by the Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN). These are often used by flowchart software and chart drawing programs, and makes the chart easier to understand when presented to other users.
Common Symbols
Start - indicates the Start of the process
Task - shows a specific action or process within the overall process
Decision - this is a branching point from which multiple paths can be taken
Input / Output - represents something entering or leaving the process, such as information, materials or product
Document - any form of documentation or report
Predefined Process - also called a subroutine, it may be represented in a separate process chart
End - indicates the End of the process
Extract - indicates a measurement, or the storage of finished goods in Flow Charts
Database - information from a database
Direct Data - usually refers to a hard drive
On Page Ref - indicates that the process continues at a matching symbol on the same chart
Off Page Ref - indicates that the process continues at a matching symbol on a different chart
Stored Data - output of data to storage
Transfer - the transfer of materials to another process
