SIPOCmenetelmää

SIPOC, which stands for Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputs, and Customers, is a tool used in business process management and quality improvement. It is a high-level map that helps visualize and understand a process from beginning to end. The SIPOC diagram is often created at the beginning of a project, such as a Six Sigma or Lean initiative, to establish a common understanding of the process scope and boundaries.

Suppliers are the entities that provide the inputs needed for the process. Inputs are the resources, materials, or information required to execute the process. The Process itself is a series of steps taken to transform inputs into outputs. Outputs are the products, services, or results generated by the process. Customers are the individuals or groups who receive the outputs.

By identifying these five key elements, teams can gain a clear overview of the process. This helps in identifying potential areas for improvement, understanding the flow of work, and defining the project's scope. The SIPOC diagram is not intended to detail every single step within a process but rather to provide a foundational understanding. Its simplicity makes it a valuable starting point for complex problem-solving and process optimization efforts. It ensures that all stakeholders are aligned on what the process is and who is involved.