Process planning is crucial in project management, particularly in manufacturing, where it establishes the sequence of steps from material procurement to finished product creation. It differs from project planning, which defines specific actions for each process. Process planning is not new and can be used in any environment to achieve a specific goal. Computer-aided process scheduling software is commonly used, and proprietary software can be developed for specific business needs.
Process planning is a key element in project management that focuses on the selection of resources to be used in executing and completing a project. In a manufacturing environment, this aspect of planning also includes establishing the general sequence of steps starting with the procurement of materials and ending with the creation of a finished product. Process planning is often closely associated with project planning, although the specific functions of each tool are used differently in overall strategic planning.
While both process and project planning are required to give shape and focus to any project, each procedure caters to specific needs. Process planning helps create the overall process needed to achieve an end goal, such as creating a product or developing a marketing campaign. Project planning examines each of the phases or processes identified in process planning and defines specific actions that must be performed for all processes to complete successfully. In a sense, a process plan provides the structure for a procedure while a project plan provides the specifics on how to complete each step or process needed to achieve the desired result.
Process planning is not a new concept. The strategy has been used in corporate circles for centuries. Private and non-profit organizations often use this same type of planning when structuring a new project or directive. While the amount of detail involved will largely depend on the scope of the project and the culture of the business or entity leading the project, planning works in nearly any environment where a group of people want to determine how to achieve a specific goal.
In a manufacturing environment, this type of planning can also address concerns about the steps identified as necessary to create a product. For example, the plan may also address issues such as packaging design or labeling for the final product, as well as creating user instructions that accompany each unit sold.
Today, the use of process scheduling software is common in both small businesses and large corporations. Sometimes a component of a complete project management software package, computer-aided process scheduling software can also be purchased to complement other systems. Along with standardized products, it’s not uncommon for companies to develop in-house software to help with this task. Proprietary software is especially useful when running the business involves the use of data or procedures that don’t scale well with generic software programs.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
