A Supplier-Input-Output-Customer (SIPOC) diagram displays a cross-functional set of activities within a single diagram. It provides an excellent method for examining processes of all sizes and is particularly suited to the "big-picture" perspective. It is a high-level summary that stays above the level of a process map or value stream map. Because of this, it is a great starting point for any team activity as it helps define process boundaries, customers, suppliers, inputs and outputs, and the most critical process steps.
Steps for creating a SIPOC diagram:
- Describe what the process does.
- Identify the start and end points; what triggers the process? What is the end product?
- List the outputs.
- List the customers of the product.
- List the process inputs.
- List the suppliers of the process.
A SIPOC diagram will tell you where you need more measurements for the process's inputs and outputs. Though very helpful initially, the SIPOC scope will be too large for one project when developing the improvement project. You will select specific inputs, outputs, suppliers, or process steps for attention.
