How to generate an AI Process Map
Step-by-step guide on generating a Process Map
- Write a prompt describing the high-level process. Start by explaining the workflow of an operational or business process (e.g. a customer service request workflow or an internal approval procedure). Writing the prompt as a structured list or outline is effective, as it maps out each step and decision clearly. A few things to keep in mind are:
- List the main steps in order: Clearly state the primary steps or activities in the process, in the sequence they occur.
- Include decision points: Identify key decision points where the workflow might branch into different paths, and describe what happens for each possible outcome.
- Specify start and end points: Explicitly mention where the process starts (the initial trigger) and where it ends (the final outcome or goal).
- Mention subprocesses or phases (if any): If applicable, call out any subprocesses or distinct phases in the workflow, grouping related steps under those phases for clarity.
- Generate a diagram with the completed prompt. Once your prompt clearly outlines the process and its branches, use the AI tool to create the process map diagram from that description. The tool will convert your text into a structured flowchart-style diagram of the workflow.
- Edit the diagram with follow-up prompts (optional). If the first result isn’t quite right, you can refine it by giving additional instructions. For example, you might add a missing step or adjust a label using a follow-up prompt. Note: This step requires signing in to Eraser.
- Manually adjust the layout (optional). You can also fine-tune the diagram’s appearance using drag-and-drop GUI controls – for instance, rearranging nodes or adjusting connections for readability. Note: This step requires signing in to Eraser.
Tips on generating a Process Map
- Leverage existing documents: Instead of writing a prompt entirely from scratch, consider copying relevant details from existing documentation. For example, you can pull steps from requirements documents, standard operating procedures (SOPs), or transcripts of someone describing the process. These sources often contain the key activities and decisions which you can organize into your prompt.
- Use an LLM to structure the workflow: Working with a Large Language Model (LLM) can help flesh out the process before you generate the diagram. You might ask an AI assistant to outline the process as a list of steps and decision points. This can quickly give you a well-structured draft for your prompt, which you can then refine and feed into the diagram generator.