Flow chart

FLOW CHART

Flow chart is defined as graphical representation of the logic for problem solving.

The purpose of flowchart is making the logic of the program clear in a visual representation.

Rules for drawing a flowchart

1.              The flowchart should be clear, neat and easy to follow.

2.              The flowchart must have a logical start and finish.

3.              Only one flow line should come out from a process symbol.

4. Only one flow line should enter a decision symbol. However, two or three flow lines may leave the decision symbol.

5. Only one flow line is used with a terminal symbol.

6. Within standard symbols, write briefly and precisely.

7. Intersection of flow lines should be avoided.

Advantages of flowchart:

1.              Communication: - Flowcharts are better way of communicating the logic of a system to all concerned.

2.              Effective analysis: - With the help of flowchart, problem can be analyzed in more effective way.

3.              Proper documentation: - Program flowcharts serve as a good program documentation, which is needed for various purposes.

4.              Efficient Coding: - The flowcharts act as a guide or blueprint during the systems analysis and program development phase.

5.              Proper Debugging: - The flowchart helps in debugging process.

6.              Efficient Program Maintenance: - The maintenance of operating program becomes easy with the help of flowchart. It helps the programmer to put efforts more efficiently on that part.

Disadvantages of flow chart:

1.              Complex logic: - Sometimes, the program logic is quite complicated. In that case, flowchart becomes complex and clumsy.

2.              Alterations and Modifications: - If alterations are required the flowchart may require re-drawing completely.

3.              Reproduction: - As the flowchart symbols cannot be typed, reproduction of flowchart becomes a problem.

4.              Cost: For large application the time and cost of flowchart drawing becomes costly.