Introduction
If our vision for our companies is that they operate efficiently, it is important that we are able to identify and classify the types of processes we are working with. In this blog, I will explain some of the most common types of processes that exist and that we can classify in order to make them efficient.
One very important thing to mention is that it is possible to classify a process in more than one type, but it all depends on how we want to visualize and communicate it. Naturally, linear processes are the easiest way to understand a process and communicate it to our team, which is why it is often convenient to break a tree-type process into several linear-type processes. This helps us in communication with our internal team and in the documentation of the process.
Linear Processes
Features
Linear processes are those in which tasks are executed in a specific sequence, one after the other. Each task must be completed before the next one can begin, and there are no deviations in the workflow.
Examples
Hiring process: receipt of CVs -> initial interviews -> final interviews -> job offer.
Billing process: creation of invoice -> approval -> sending to the client -> receipt of payment.
Advantages and Challenges
Linear processes are easy to understand and manage due to their sequential nature. However, they can be inflexible and may not adapt well to unexpected changes or exceptions. This latter issue means that if one stage fails, it can cause significant delays, especially when the assigned resources cannot resolve it on their own.
How to automate a linear process?
The automation of linear processes can be achieved using tools like Make, Zapier, or Power Automate. These tools allow you to design step-by-step workflows, automating each task according to the established sequence, which reduces time and manual effort.
Iterative Processes
Features
Iterative processes are repeated multiple times until a desired outcome is achieved. Each iteration allows for adjustments and improvements based on feedback or previous results. This type of process is very useful in tasks that require creativity and strategy, as it allows for improved results in each iteration.
Examples
Software development: planning -> design -> implementation -> testing -> review -> repeat until the goal is achieved.
Marketing campaigns: campaign design -> launch -> results analysis -> strategy adjustment -> repeat.
Advantages and Challenges
The main advantage of iterative processes is their ability to continuously improve. However, they can consume a lot of time and resources if not managed properly. If not managed correctly using some methodology, it can lead to frustrations due to lack of results and missed deadlines.
How to automate a linear process?
To automate iterative processes, tools like Airtable and Make can be used, which allow for setting up feedback loops and continuous improvement. These tools help to monitor progress and make adjustments automatically in each iteration. Additionally, there are project management tools like Notion and Monday that have preset configurations to manage these cycles appropriately.
Parallel Processes
Features
In parallel processes, multiple tasks or activities are executed simultaneously. These tasks can be independent of one another or require coordination at certain points. They have the characteristic that two or more large processes can occur simultaneously and must finish at the same time or very close to each other for the result to be efficient.
Examples
Development of physical products: design -> hardware development -> software development -> integrated testing.
Development of apartment buildings: design -> construction -> marketing and sales -> delivery of sold properties.
Advantages and Challenges
Parallel processes can significantly speed up project completion by allowing multiple tasks to be carried out at the same time. However, they require careful coordination and communication to avoid conflicts and ensure that all parties work in harmony. For example: Do not sell an apartment that does not exist.
How to automate a linear process?
These types of processes, like those of the tree type, are best managed through internal applications. Bubble, Airtable, and PowerApps allow us to create internal-use applications where we can manage both processes and efficiently configure connection points, whether by creating automated notifications or integrated information exchange in one place.
Conclusion
There are different types of processes; to automate and digitize, it is important to identify them correctly. The digitalization strategy for one process is different and depends on the nature of the process and our needs. My general recommendation is to break the processes into simple and understandable steps; when the processes become too large, breaking them into subprocesses will give us greater clarity.
