In a SIPOC diagram, high-level process maps are used as simple yet effective illustration tools. Project leaders use them to quickly explain expectations and provide common reference points to all project team members. SIPOC diagrams are also helpful in identifying problem areas offering little value.

Understanding a SIPOC diagram

A SIPOC diagram is a tool for documenting and improving business processes. Ultimately, SIPOC diagrams help businesses develop operations that are more efficient and less wasteful. The diagrams are a form of process mapping, where project goals are first identified and then detailed steps devised regarding how they might be achieved. 

The five components of a SIPOC diagram

SIPOC is an acronym of five components that are included on a SIPOC diagram. Emphasis is given to high-level processes and how they transform inputs (resources) into outputs (products or services).

Here are the five components:

• Supplier – the provider of inputs into a process. For a café business, the supplier may be a local roastery or grocery store. Customer requests or feedback can also be classified as suppliers.
• Input – materials, resources, or other information required to complete a process. Coffee beans and cake are examples of inputs for a café. Electricity and water are also important inputs in the coffee-making process.
• Process – what are the steps that must be taken to convert inputs into outputs? The café must take customer orders using a point-of-sale system and then convert coffee beans into a hot appetizing beverage.
• Outputs – or products and services that result from the process. For example, a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
• Customer – the recipient of the output, such as coffee lovers or morning commuters.

How to construct a SIPOC diagram

Constructing a SIPOC diagram is relatively straightforward. To start, create a table with five columns and then label each with one of the five components.

Then, follow these steps:

1. Write the name of the process in the central column and describe key steps. In describing the steps, remember that SIPOC diagrams describe high-level processes. Keep each step brief by using a flowchart and ensure that the team understands the start and endpoints.
2. Identify the outputs. Describe four or five important outputs using nouns and neutral language to avoid categorizing them as either positive or negative. Businesses can also note customer requirements in this column but again, keep the tone neutral where possible.
3. Identify customers. Who are the stakeholders that will ultimately benefit from the process? If improvements to internal operations are the goal, then employees are the customers. 
4. List the inputs required for the process to function at the desired level. The focus should again be on four to five of the most salient.
5. Identify the suppliers for each input described in the previous step.
6. At this point, a business may choose to identify preliminary customer requirements. This step is useful for those incorporating customer requirements into the measure phase of the Six Sigma DMAIC methodology.
7. Lastly, discuss and verify all aspects of the process with sponsors, key stakeholders, and decisions makers.

Key takeaways

• A SIPOC diagram helps businesses identify the key drivers of high-level process improvement.
• A SIPOC diagram consists of five components: supplier, input, process, output, and customer. Focus is given to processes and how they transforms inputs into outputs.
• Constructing a SIPOC diagram is a straightforward affair that favors simplicity. Team members should identify processes using flow charts and keep input and output lists to a maximum of five items. However, those wanting a more detailed analysis can incorporate the Six Sigma DMAIC process.

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