SIPOC & process mapping
A SIPOC (Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputs, Customers) is a high-level process map that defines project scope in the Define phase. It shows the start-to-finish flow in 4–7 steps and identifies who provides inputs and who receives outputs. It does not show variation, decisions, or data flows — those come in Measure when you build a detailed map.
SIPOC structure
| Suppliers | Inputs | Process (4–7 steps) | Outputs | Customers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raw material vendors Internal departments | API, excipients Work orders Equipment calibration records | 1. Receive & weigh API 2. Blend 3. Granulate 4. Compress 5. Coat 6. Package | Coated tablets Batch record Certificate of Analysis | QA (release) Distribution End customer |
When to use SIPOC vs a detailed process map
- SIPOC (Define): Establishes scope, aligns the team, identifies key suppliers and customers. High-level — fits on one page.
- Detailed process map / swim-lane (Measure): Shows every step, decision, handoff, wait time, and rework loop. Used to identify where defects or delays enter the process.
- Value stream map (current state in Measure/Analyze; future state in Improve): Adds time data (cycle time, wait time, inventory) and information flow to identify waste. See VSM →
Common exam traps
- SIPOC comes before detailed mapping. You build the SIPOC first to bound scope, then build the detailed map in Measure with actual data. Teams usually fill in the Process column first, then Outputs and Customers, then Inputs and Suppliers.
- Customers in SIPOC are not just end customers. The next step in the process is also a customer. A packaging line is a customer of the coating step.
- Outputs are not the same as outcomes. A coated tablet is an output; a defect rate ≤1% is an outcome. CTQs describe the required quality of outputs.
Try 5 free CSSBB practice questions on SIPOC and process mapping.
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