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What is a Block Diagram? A block diagram is a specific, high-level flowchart utilized in engineering, hardware design, electronic design, software design, and process flow diagrams. It is used to design innovative systems or to describe and enhance existing ones. The block diagram represents, at a sketch level, how a process flows from function to function or from unit to unit within an establishment. The diagram uses blocks to reflect the essential activities and links them together by connecting lines representing elements or communication flows. Essential Components of a Block Diagram Block: it describes the logical and physical elements of the system. Part: it includes all aspects modeled using association and aggregation. Reference: it has all the components which were developed utilizing association and aggregation. Standard Port: is the point of interaction between a system block and the identical environment. Flow Port: is the point of interaction wherever a block can emerge from or to. The Ideal Applications of Block Diagram To provide a high-level representation of a process flow. To promote harmony of process function and sequence. To distinguish cross-functional unit interfacing. Problem-solving phase Select & define problem or opportunity Recognize and analyze causes or potential change Develop and propose possible solutions or change Execute and evaluate solution or change Measure and report solution or change results Acknowledge and reward team efforts Block Diagram is typically used by Statistician / Quality Analyst Creativity & Innovation practitioner Engineers Project Managers Manufacturing Sales and Marketing professionals Administration/documentation Servicing/support Customer/quality metrics Change management Benefits of the Block Diagram Block Diagram improves understanding of the process by showing all involved parts and how they are interconnected in a straightforward format. A block diagram is a beneficial tool both in designing unique processes and in improving existing processes. In both cases, the diagram provides a fast, visually clear view of the work and should rapidly result in process points of interest. Block Diagrams used "before" Process Analysis Problem Analysis Workflow Analysis (WFA) Systems Analysis Diagram Work breakdown structure (WBS) Block Diagrams used after Process Mapping Activity analysis Potential Problem Analysis (PPA) Organization Chart Functional Map Symbols Used in Block Diagram Block diagrams use fundamental geometric shapes: Boxes, Triangles, and Circles. The essential parts and functions are represented by blocks attached by straight lines representing relationships. Step-by-step procedure STEP 1 - The team distinguishes all functions or activities inside a process and checks where the start and stop functions are defined by team agreement. STEP 2 - The functions are then sequenced and dramatize on a whiteboard or flip charts in a block diagram arrangement. STEP 3 - The team verifies that all functions (blocks) are considered for and represented in the proper sequence to correctly reflect the current process. STEP 4 - Subsequently, additional supporting information is added, and the diagram is recorded. Example of Block Diagram application The most beneficial way to understand block diagrams is to look at the below example.