Swimlane Diagram Template

About the Swimlane Diagram Template

When processes start to get messy, it’s a good idea to take a step back and visualize who does what and when. Enter: the swimlane diagram template. This digestible, one-stop visual representation uses the metaphor of lanes in a pool to add clarity to complex processes.

A swimlane diagram takes a familiar physical place (a lap pool) and turns it into an analogy for organizing processes within a team, workgroup, department, or multilayered organization.

The template is typically divided into several lanes. Each lane is associated with a department, like development, marketing, or sales. Lanes can also correspond to entities outside your company, like customers or third-party vendors. Shapes in the lanes represent all the processes within the scope of the diagram. Arrows show how those objects feed information and/or materials to each other.

In the end, a swimlane diagram template looks like a flowchart but also incorporates elements of an org chart and value stream map (VSM). It shows you what gets done, who does it, and how everything happens.

How to use the swimlane diagram template

Get started by selecting the Miro swimlane diagram template, then follow these steps to make it your own. You can also use Miro's flowchart maker and shapes.

1. Be clear about your goals

Before you start diagramming, determine your desired outcome. Remember that swimlane flowchart templates are best for visualizing how multiple contributors or teams work through the stages of a process.

2. Name your swimlanes and start mapping out a process

Customize the swimlane flowchart by double-clicking shapes. Add the name of each team member, function, or stakeholder. Don’t forget to include outside stakeholders, like customers or contractors.

3. Add arrows to finish your flow mapping

Arrows show the flow of responsibilities from one step to the next. They can stay within lanes or cross lane boundaries. Add an arrow whenever one step triggers another or makes it possible.

Remember that there’s no wrong way to draw your pool. You can use as many lanes as your process demands and arrange them from north to south or east to west.

Why should you use a swimlane template?

• Enhanced visibility and clarity: The swimlane diagram template offers a clear and organized visual representation of complex processes. With distinct swimlanes for each participant or department, team members can easily understand the flow of activities. This fosters transparency and reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings.

• Efficient workflow management: The template makes streamlining and optimizing processes easier. Assign tasks to specific lanes, identify bottlenecks, and ensure each team member understands their role in the workflow. This boosts efficiency and empowers your team to work cohesively towards common objectives. If you require additional assistance with your swimlane diagram, you may find it helpful to utilize the cross-functional flowchart template.

• Collaborative problem-solving: By visually representing tasks, responsibilities, and handovers, teams can spot areas that require attention or improvement. This fosters a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

• Time and resource optimization: Time is a precious commodity in any business. The swimlane template helps you identify areas where time and resources can be optimized. Visualizing the entire process allows you to identify redundant steps, streamline workflows, and allocate resources more efficiently. This improves productivity and allows your team to focus on achieving their goals.