Free Practice WorkbookIf you want to show a process in your workplace then this can be designed using Excel’s Smart Art. There are heaps of Process Maps in Excel that shows progress from left to right, top to bottom, one way and circular. Here is how you can insert a left to right Process Map using Excel.
Key Takeaways
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Visualize Workflows Easily – A process map in Excel helps illustrate workflows, making it easier to analyze and optimize business processes.
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Use Shapes and Connectors – Excel’s built-in shapes and connectors allow you to create flowcharts that visually represent each step in a process.
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SmartArt for Quick Mapping – The SmartArt feature in Excel provides pre-designed process diagrams that can be customized to suit different workflow needs.
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Link Data to Process Steps – You can enhance your process map by linking specific data points to each step, providing additional insights for decision-making.
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Save as a Template – Once created, a process map can be saved as a template for future use, ensuring consistency across similar processes.
Table of Contents
How to Process Map Using Excel
STEP 1: Click on Insert > Smart Art > Process > Basic Chevron Process
STEP 2: Enter the processes by clicking on a shape
STEP 3: To enter a new process, you need to click on a shape and select SmartArt Tools > Design > Add Shape (You can also right click on the shape and choose this option)
STEP 4: To change the process from right to left, you need to click on a shape and select SmartArt Tools > Design > Right to Left
STEP 5: To move the process forwards or backwards, you need to click on a shape and select SmartArt Tools > Design > Move Up or Move Down
STEP 6: To change the color of the process, you need to click on a shape and select SmartArt Tools > Design > Change Colors
STEP 7: Under SmartArt Tools > Design > SmartArt Styles drop down you can change the style of your process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I create a process map in Excel?
You can create a process map in Excel by using shapes and connectors from the “Insert” tab. Go to Insert > Shapes, select flowchart symbols, and arrange them to represent your process. Use arrows to connect steps logically.
Can I use SmartArt to make a process map?
Yes, Excel provides SmartArt Graphics that can help you quickly create process maps. Go to Insert > SmartArt > Process, and choose a layout that best represents your workflow.
How do I make my process map more visually appealing?
You can enhance your process map by using colors, gradients, and text formatting. Applying themes from the “Page Layout” tab and using the “Format” options for shapes and connectors can improve readability.
Can I link data to my process map in Excel?
Yes, you can link Excel cells or external data sources to process map elements. Right-click a shape, choose Hyperlink, and link it to another sheet, document, or webpage for additional details.
How do I save my process map for reuse?
Once you create a process map, you can save it as a template. Select your entire process map, copy it to a new sheet, and save the workbook as a reusable file to modify for future projects.
John Michaloudis is a former accountant and finance analyst at General Electric, a Microsoft MVP since 2020, an Amazon #1 bestselling author of 4 Microsoft Excel books and teacher of Microsoft Excel & Office over at his flagship MyExcelOnline Academy Online Course.
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