Develop and verify the process flow diagram. To aid the team in discussing the flow diagram, consecutively number each process step (for example, 1, 2, 3. . .).
Next, identify all subprocesses under each block of this flow diagram and consecutively letter these subprocess steps (that is, 1A, 1B. . . 3A, 3B. . .). Teams will find it extremely beneficial to identify all subprocess steps before proceeding with further team work. If the process is complex, identify the portion of the process or subprocess to focus on. (See Sidebar 1, right.)