SIPOC Diagram

In this tutorial, we will learn about the SIPOC diagram. The Six SIGMA approach originated this form of workflow diagram. The SIPOC acronym stands for:

• Supplier
• Input
• Process
• Output
• Customer

 

Suppliers: The entities (people, organizations, systems) that provide the necessary inputs for the process.

Inputs: The resources, information, and materials needed to execute the process.

Process: The series of steps or activities that transform inputs into outputs. This section typically includes a high-level description of the process.

Outputs: The products, services, or results generated by the process.

Customers: The recipients of the outputs, who can be internal or external to the organization.

Steps to Create SIPOC Diagram

• Identify the Process
• List the Outputs
• Identify the Customers
• List the Inputs
• Identify the Suppliers
• Map the Process Steps

A SIPOC diagram provides a high-level view of a process by documenting its suppliers, inputs, process, outputs, and customers. It visualizes how everyone in the process receives materials or data from each other and is often used to improve or understand processes that impact customer experience. SIPOC diagrams are often created as tables. They are used for organization-wide process improvements.