Share thisLast month we said that “a picture is worth a thousand words,” well this month we’ll continue with that theme. With flowcharting we showed that an outline for an SOP could be developed using a set of symbols. But what if our process isn’t linear or sequential or if it involves a number of different pieces of equipment or activities? What if we really don’t know or understand how the process will flow? Solution — mind mapping.
A mind map is a diagram used to represent words, ideas, tasks, or other items linked to or arranged radially around a central key thought, word, or theme. Mind mapping is simply a visualization tool (and yes there are automated tools) which helps you think and get organized more proficiently. Mind maps are the one of the most effective, “brain-friendly” ways to turn unorganized, linear, fleeting ideas and thoughts into a structured, visual “map.” Mind maps are image-centered diagrams that represent connections between portions of information. By presenting these connections in a radial, non-linear graphical manner, mind mapping encourages a brainstorming approach to any given organizational task.
A mind map uses words, lines, logic, colors, and even images. Elements of the mind map are arranged intuitively according to the importance of the concepts and they are organized into groupings, branches, or areas.
MIND MAPPING — AN EIGHT STEP PROCESS
After being introduced to mind mapping, one of my colleague’s told me that mind mapping should be done before flowcharting. I tried it and I agree! So is there an SOP on mind mapping? Well not exactly. There are several approaches that can found in books and on the web. I’ll present one approach and relate it to one of my first mind maps, which is shown in Figure 1.
Before we start, what materials will you need? Not much: a sheet of paper – the larger the better and a pack of colored felt-tipped pens, although a pencil with eraser will work as well.
Step 1: Start at the center of the page
In the center of the paper draw or write down the topic of the SOP. In this case it was Chemical Mixing and Dispensing.
Step 2: Don’t be serious!
Write down or draw the first things that come up in your mind when you start to think about an SOP. Put your thoughts related to subject SOP around the central topic. These can be anything and everything. I simply listed the primary chemicals used in our facility.