A Product Flow Diagram is a visual representation used within PRINCE2 7 to illustrate the sequence and dependencies between products that need to be created during a project. It forms an essential component of the Plans practice, helping project teams understand how different deliverables relate to…A Product Flow Diagram is a visual representation used within PRINCE2 7 to illustrate the sequence and dependencies between products that need to be created during a project. It forms an essential component of the Plans practice, helping project teams understand how different deliverables relate to each other and the order in which they must be produced.
The diagram shows products as boxes or rectangles, with arrows connecting them to demonstrate the flow and dependencies. When one product requires another to be completed first, an arrow indicates this relationship. This visual approach makes it easier to identify which products can be developed in parallel and which must follow a sequential order.
Product Flow Diagrams serve several important purposes in PRINCE2 projects. First, they help planners determine the logical sequence of activities by clarifying what must be completed before other work can begin. Second, they support resource planning by revealing where parallel work streams exist. Third, they assist in identifying potential bottlenecks where multiple products converge before subsequent work can proceed.
When creating a Product Flow Diagram, teams typically start by listing all products from the Product Breakdown Structure. They then analyse each product to determine what inputs are needed and what outputs it will generate. External products, which come from outside the project scope, are usually shown with different formatting to distinguish them from project deliverables.
The diagram complements other planning techniques in PRINCE2, particularly the Product Breakdown Structure and Product Descriptions. Together, these tools provide a product-based approach to planning that focuses on deliverables rather than activities. This emphasis on products helps ensure that planning remains outcome-focused and that all necessary components are identified before scheduling and resource allocation take place.
Product Flow Diagram - PRINCE2 Foundation V7 Complete Guide
What is a Product Flow Diagram?
A Product Flow Diagram is a visual representation that shows the sequence in which products need to be developed and the dependencies between them. It illustrates the logical order of product creation within a PRINCE2 project, helping teams understand which products must be completed before others can begin.
Why is the Product Flow Diagram Important?
The Product Flow Diagram serves several critical purposes in PRINCE2 projects:
• Identifies Dependencies: It clearly shows which products depend on the completion of other products • Supports Planning: Helps project managers create realistic schedules by understanding the logical sequence of work • Facilitates Communication: Provides a clear visual tool for discussing product delivery with stakeholders and team members • Enables Resource Planning: By understanding the sequence, resources can be allocated more effectively • Supports Risk Management: Helps identify potential bottlenecks and critical paths in product delivery
How Does the Product Flow Diagram Work?
The Product Flow Diagram works by:
1. Listing all products from the Product Breakdown Structure 2. Identifying dependencies between products (which products are needed to create other products) 3. Arranging products in a logical sequence from left to right or top to bottom 4. Using arrows to show the flow and dependencies between products 5. Including external products that come from outside the project but are needed as inputs
The diagram typically shows: • Internal products - created by the project team • External products - provided from outside the project • Arrows - indicating the flow and dependencies
Relationship with Other Planning Documents
The Product Flow Diagram is part of the product-based planning technique and relates to: • Product Breakdown Structure: Lists what products are needed • Product Descriptions: Define each product in detail • Project Plan/Stage Plan: The flow diagram feeds into schedule development
Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Product Flow Diagram
Key Points to Remember:
• The Product Flow Diagram shows sequence and dependencies, not the hierarchy of products (that is the Product Breakdown Structure) • It is created after the Product Breakdown Structure in the product-based planning sequence • External products should be included when they are inputs to internal products • The diagram is used to help create schedules and plans
Common Exam Question Types:
1. Purpose questions: Know that it shows the sequence and dependencies of products 2. Sequence questions: Remember it comes after the Product Breakdown Structure in product-based planning 3. Differentiation questions: Be able to distinguish between Product Breakdown Structure (hierarchy) and Product Flow Diagram (sequence) 4. Content questions: Know that it includes both internal and external products
Watch Out For:
• Questions that confuse Product Flow Diagram with Product Breakdown Structure • Answers that suggest the flow diagram shows the organizational structure • Options stating that external products should not be included
Memory Tip: Think of FLOW = Sequence. The word 'flow' implies movement and order, which is exactly what this diagram shows - the order in which products flow through creation.