NCJ Number
213950
Journal
Forensic Magazine Volume: 3 Issue: 2 Dated: April-May 2006 Pages: 33,34,36
Date Published
April 2006
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article explains how process mapping can aid in the design of forensic laboratories.
Abstract
"Process mapping" describes a series of connected steps or actions that achieve an outcome. Organizations often use it to gain an understanding of their existing functions and procedures as well as a clear sense of their needs. This enhances the organization's ability to develop a clear course of action to improve the timeliness and quality of services. The authors' version of process mapping for a forensic laboratory is a software-based tool that establishes a clear and comprehensive picture of how the laboratory currently works or plans to work. It visually displays starting and ending points for activities, standards, and quality of input sequences throughout the process. It also documents the relationships of each function to provide a better understanding of existing processes and purposes for the outcome. Many layers of activities and resources can be reviewed through process mapping, including personnel, performance improvement opportunities, technology, training, case management enhancements, and accreditation. Facility management can be aided by an analysis of existing or programmed spaces, validation of staff numbers and equipment needs, setting up databases for new protocols, verifying square footage, and enhancing space efficiencies. This article provides detailed descriptions of process mapping for time analysis, resource analysis, processing tracks, occurrence rate, and activity type. Various ways of collecting the information needed to create a map of existing processes are also described. 3 figures