Do you need software for your processes, but don’t know which one to choose? What if I told you that, in addition to mapping functionalities, some software packages enable you to create a mini operational software package for you and your teams in just a few clicks, based on your process?
In addition to diagram-creation functions, these “new generation” software packages enable :
- Highly efficient linking of different tasks within a process, while connecting your existing software.
- Automation of certain repetitive tasks.
In the first part of this article, we’ll introduce you to the main process mapping software packages. In the second part, we’ll introduce you to the process software packages that can also be used to create mini-software and automate tasks.
Top 8 process mapping tools
Camunda, BMPN’s open source specialists
Camunda is an open source business process mapping software. It also offers process automation functionalities.
Techno Open Source or SaaS
Process mapping : Yes, and can model BPMN natively
Task automation : Yes
Simple creation of mini business software : No
Gliffy, diagram modeling for team documentation
Gliffy is a software package that enables multiple users to collaborate on modeling a process. It’s easy to use and easy to evolve over time.
Techno SaaS
Process mapping : Yes
Task automation : No
Simple creation of mini business software : No
Creately, the process software that includes numerous models
Creately offers a user-friendly interface and easily-shared diagrams or processes. Its strength lies in its large number of ready-to-use templates.
Techno SaaS
Process mapping : Yes
Task automation : No
Simple creation of mini business software : No
Power Point, the tool you’ve already mastered for mapping processes
It’s no joke, we often produce process maps on PowerPoint. The rendering is easily shared with others and can be used collaboratively. What’s more, it’s a tool that you’ve probably already mastered.
Techno SaaS or fat client
Process mapping : Yes
Task automation : No
Simple creation of mini business software : No
Google Slides, same advantages as Power Point, but much more collaborative
Same advantages as PowerPoint. We strongly recommend starting with Google Slides or PowerPoint when looking for process software. If you’ve had enough, or want more functionality and standards compliance, you can opt for other tools.
Techno SaaS
Process mapping : Yes
Task automation : No
Simple creation of mini business software : No
LucidChart, process mapping software that includes AI
Lucidchart is one of the most functionally advanced process software packages available. It also includes numerous templates and an AI module for automatic process modeling.
Techno SaaS
Process mapping : Yes
Task automation : No
Simple creation of mini business software : No
Lapala, map and create a mini software program for your teams in just a few clicks. And it’s the only one in France!
With Lapala, French process software, you go beyond process mapping. By mapping your processes, you create a simple, operational and efficient tool for your teams.
Techno SaaS or Private Cloud
Process mapping : Yes
Task automation : Yes
Simple creation of mini business software : Yes
Miro, a tool for visualizing ideas and processes
Think of Miro as a collaborative suite for bringing all your ideas to life. Thanks to dedicated functions, it can also be used to create processes and diagrams.
Techno SaaS
Process mapping : Yes
Task automation : No
Simple creation of mini business software : No
The benefits of process software
Easily understand complex processes
Diagramming tools make a process visible and comprehensible to all employees.
Easily update process diagrams
The diagram is online and easy to modify without having to manage multiple versions.
Easily shared among teams
At the click of a button, you can share the process with the whole company or with specific employees.
The process sheet is a crucial tool for guaranteeing the long-term viability of an activity and ensuring simplified improvement whenever necessary. It brings together key information such as process mapping and performance indicators.
The process sheet will also facilitate the implementation of new projects, audits, controls and reviews.
However, there’s a fine line between “having a useful process sheet for your company” and “having an unused, obsolete sheet lost in the depths of your storage space”.
To explore this topic further, we have written another resource to help you produce a simple process sheet (with a sample process sheet).
Create mini softwares from process models with Lapala
In the video below, you’ll find an example of a multi-actor sales administration process, including several company software applications and automations.
How to use process software? Which method?
Step 1 – Understanding the process to be mapped through an audit
The manager needs to investigate and meet as many people as possible to understand how the process works, and to gather problems, needs and information. He must be exhaustive, meet the right people and use a variety of methods.
Find out more in our article on how to conduct a process audit.
Step 2 – Consolidate information and build process structure
All the information gathered will enable you to create an initial structure for your process. The aim of this stage is not to have a finished work, but to have a work that can be presented to a few key collaborators from the previous phase for correction. Even if it’s only a working version, don’t hesitate to make it visually easy to understand. If a sequence looks complicated, break it down to simplify it.
Stage 3 – Proofreading the first draft with key collaborators
By presenting your first version of the diagram to key collaborators, you’ll be able to collect corrections (from your interpretation and sometimes even from what they’ve told you in step 1). Carrying out this step ensures that your process is realistic.
Step 4 – Finalizing process mapping
Now’s the time to produce the latest version, and make sure you use the right forms for your situation. There are many different types of diagram: SIPOC, UML, VSM, logigram, BPMN… We invite you to read this article to find out which one you prefer: Process Modeling – The different families.
Step 5 – Integration into a process sheet or creation of a mini-tool for your teams with Lapala process software
Documenting a process is great! But it’s even better if your teams can use it in the form of a mini-tool. Simply by integrating your work software, you can automate it and make “human” tasks more efficient. Find out more.
Find out more in our article on process automation
Now you know everything about process software. Now it’s your turn! See you soon for more content!
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