Process Documentation - What is a Process?

This blog is the sixth in a series on “Process Documentation”. As each blog is released, its title will become an active link. 

1. Process Documentation -  an introduction
2. The importance of documenting key processes
3. Benefits of process documentation
4. Understanding the 3 Ps
5. What is a policy?
6. What is a process?
7. What is a procedure?
8. How to design an effective process workflow
9. How to implement your process workflow
10. Quick steps for creating process documentation

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What is a Process?

A process defines what needs to be done to meet the stated objectives of a policy. It outlines the overall operational flow and identifies the resources and series of tasks that will be required to complete the flow.  

A process tells you what to do but typically not how to do it. A process document captures the following: 

• What are the main tasks in the process? 

• Who is responsible for each of the tasks in the process? 

• What is the sequence in which the tasks should be completed? 

• What inputs and resources are required for the process? 

• What is the output or the desired outcome of completing the process?  

Examples: 

Here are some examples of training planning and design related processes that will help achieve the two policy objective examples listed in my previous blog - What is a policy:  

• Training requirement identification process 

• Role-based training plan design process 

• Training material development process 

• Training material quality assurance process 

• Training program assessment and learning evaluation process 

About the Author

Technical Writer and Editor<br><br>Surya has been writing and editing technical content for over two decades in multiple industries. How do you transform complex technical content into an easy-to-understand document? Ask Surya - technical writing is her passion! She has been with ASCENT since 2018. She holds a master’s degree in English Literature, and a diploma in Journalism, and is a certified Technical Writer.

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