SIPOC Diagram

Definition

SIPOC is a process analysis method that provides a simple overview of a process. It is used to look at the process and understand the Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputs, and Customers of the process being analyzed. It also shows the complexity of who and what is involved in creating inputs to the process and shows who receives outputs from the process. A SIPOC is a powerful tool used to create dialogue about problems, opportunities, gaps, root cause, and options and alternatives during process analysis.

Inputs

• A process to be analyzed, named at a high level (not yet detailed step-by-step)
• Knowledge of who supplies inputs to the process and who consumes its outputs

Outputs

• A simple five-column table: Suppliers, Inputs, Process (high-level steps), Outputs, Customers
• A shared starting point for deeper process analysis (often followed by detailed process mapping, such as BPMN)

When to Use

• Early-stage process analysis, before diving into detailed process mapping
• Establishing scope and boundaries of a process — where it starts, where it ends, who's involved
• Lean Six Sigma or process improvement initiatives at the "Define" stage

When Not to Use

• Processes that are already well-documented in detail — SIPOC is a starting point, not a replacement for detailed mapping
• Highly technical, system-to-system processes with no meaningful human supplier/customer dimension