Flowchart Template
Visualize a process step by step, from start to finish. A flowchart makes decisions, loops and responsibilities visible, so everyone understands how a process really works.
Free to start · Swiss-made · GDPR compliant
Drawing a process as a flowchart
The Collaboard template shows a simple process with the most common flowchart shapes: a start circle, a process phase, a decision diamond with yes and no paths, a next step and a revision loop that leads back into the process. All shapes and arrows can be copied, so the flowchart grows with your process.
Define start and end
Decide where the process begins and where it ends.
List the steps
Write down all steps in the order they happen, one per shape.
Add decisions
Use a diamond wherever the process branches, and label the paths yes and no.
Connect the shapes
Draw arrows, so the direction of the process is always clear.
Walk through it
Follow the flowchart with a real case and check whether every path leads somewhere.
Improve the process
Look for loops, waiting times and unnecessary steps, and mark them for change.
What is a flowchart?
A flowchart shows a process as a sequence of steps and decisions. Standard shapes make it easy to read: a start point, process steps, decision points with yes and no paths, and an end. Teams use flowcharts to document, explain and improve processes.
The shapes of the template
The examples follow one illustrative scenario: a team describing its approval process for marketing materials.
- Start (circle) Where the process begins. Example: a new brochure draft is ready.
- Process phase (arrow shape) A step in the process. Example: the brand team checks the draft.
- Decision (diamond) A question with yes or no. Example: does the draft meet the brand guidelines?
- Next step (rectangle) What happens when the answer is yes. Example: send it to print.
- Alternative path (rectangle) What happens when the answer is no. Example: revise the draft and check it again.
To show relationships between ideas instead of a sequence, use a concept map.
Documenting, explaining and improving processes
- Process documentation Capture how a process actually runs today.
- Onboarding Explain workflows to new colleagues step by step.
- IT and software Sketch the logic of a feature or an automation.
- Quality management Find weak spots and redundant steps in a process.
Consistent shapes and a clear direction
- One shape, one meaning Use the same shape for the same kind of element throughout.
- Keep the flow in one direction Left to right or top to bottom makes the chart easier to follow.
- Phrase decisions as questions A diamond should contain a clear yes-or-no question.
- Build it with the people involved Those who run the process know where it really deviates from the plan.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the flowchart template free?
Yes, the flowchart template is free to use with a Collaboard account. The free plan includes up to 3 boards and five people per session.
What is a flowchart used for?
A flowchart is used to document, analyze and improve processes by showing each step and decision in order.
Which shapes are used in a flowchart?
A flowchart most commonly uses rounded shapes for start and end, rectangles for steps, diamonds for decisions and parallelograms for inputs and outputs.
What is the difference between a flowchart and BPMN?
BPMN is a standardized notation with many more elements, suited for detailed business process modeling. A flowchart is simpler and quicker to create.
Can I import existing flowcharts into Collaboard?
Yes, existing flowcharts from other tools can be imported into Collaboard as images or PDFs.
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