What Does Work Flow Mean?
Work flow refers to the steps necessary to complete a particular job and the progression of those steps. Work flow is a subpart of job design that is specifically concerned with the actual physical process of the job and the interaction between employees and tasks. Work flow can either help or hinder the work process and companies should make efforts to ensure that work flow is accommodating rather than hindering to employees. The term work flow may also be written as a single word, workflow.
WorkplaceTesting Explains Work Flow
The work flow for a particular job will detail each step in the process to complete that job's tasks and how the physical environment helps or hinders the work. Work flow may list tasks that are completed in parallel or linear order and by one employee or several. Work flow design and evaluation assists employers in determining the best and most efficient method for completing a job. Good work flow also contributes to worker satisfaction and productivity. When assessing workflow factors such as room and equipment layout, distances between workstations, and the sequence of work to be performed should all be considered. For example, right handed workers may need different work area layouts than left handed workers or shorter employees may need lower work surfaces than taller employees. Work flow should be crafted in such a way as to remove or limit physical obstacles to movement and encourage communication. In its simplest form, it is about preventing the work space from interfering with the work itself.