SIPOC is an acronym for a tool used to map and define the key elements of a process. It stands for Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputsand Customers. It is a visual tool that helps to get a clear overview of a process even before you start analyzing the details.

• Suppliers (Suppliers): Who supplies the information, materials or resources needed for the process?
• Inputs (Inputs): What are the materials, information or resources provided by suppliers that are needed to start the process?
• Process (Process): This is the series of steps that convert inputs into outputs. This can be a five- to seven-step process.
• Outputs (Outputs): What is the result of the process? This can be a product, a service or information.
• Customers (Customers): Who receives the outputs of the process? These can be internal or external customers.

The SIPOC tool is useful because it creates a shared understanding of a process and helps define the boundaries of the process.

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