9akk105151d0121 Sipoc
9akk105151d0121 Sipoc
9akk105151d0121 Sipoc
SIPOC
Document the top level process steps in any process for a product or service.
SIPOC - Content
What is it for?
SIPOC = Supplier Input Process Output Customer The SIPOC process map is a useful process mapping tool for giving
a clear top level overview of any process to be improved
S Suppliers I Inputs P Process O Outputs C Customers
Start
End
Expected Benefits:
A clear overview of the top level stages of the process, with identified inputs, outputs, suppliers and customers is identified and agreed to by the improvement team. This promotes a consistent understanding of the process to be investigated. Gives clarity on the scope of the process to be investigated at an early stage in the project.
Uses:
Document the top level process steps for a high level view of the process. Understand the sequence of actions taken in a process. Understand and communicate the Inputs, Outputs, Customers and Suppliers of the overall process and its 4 to 7 major steps. Use as a starting point for agreeing boundaries and scope of an improvement project.
Be very specific about where the SIPOC (process) starts and ends. This should tie in with the project scope.
Keep activities at a top level perhaps 5 to 7 steps or key activities Steps can be recorded with Post Its or by using a spreadsheet
Understand the outputs and customers for each step. Brainstorm outputs and customers If you have a lot of outputs and customers, focus on the key/critical ones. Brainstorm inputs and suppliers If you have a lot of inputs and suppliers, focus on the key/critical ones.
Information that you record in this step will be used to create the diagram that represents the process to be improved, so take care to fully understand each step.
Inputs can be of these types: Controllable (C) Procedural (P) Noise (N) Discuss the map with personnel involved in the process. The SIPOC is often used at the start of an improvement project to define the scope of process being reviewed. Use it to verify understanding with the team and Sponsor
SIPOC Example
S
Suppliers
End Customer
I
Inputs
Signed copy of the Purchase order from customer
Procedure for order booking process
P
Process
C
O
Outputs
Sale order number Order Indent
C
Customers
Project Manager and Project execution team
End