Doctoral Process Flowcharts: Charting for Success

Abstract: Business has long understood the value of process flowcharts and has incorporated them into the framework for manufacturing and safety processes. When used in a group or team setting, they help to identify problems and areas of confusion, as well as build consensus and commitment. They can promote quality and provide clear, immediate access to information outside of written procedures. The use of flowcharts in higher education may hold great potential as we explore doctoral retention initiatives, conserve resources and ensure timely graduation through structured methods based on measurement, evaluation and assessment. Here is how we use doctoral process flowcharts at Western Michigan University and why we think their use is a good idea.

Keywords: Higher Education Brief - Continuous Improvement