What is a process hierarchy map?
A process hierarchy map shows all of an organization's processes as a structured tree. At the top is the organization or value chain; below it, process groups; then processes; then sub-processes and activities. It answers three questions auditors and new managers always ask: what are our processes, how do they fit together, and who owns each one?
Process levels explained
| Level | Name | Example | Usually documented in |
|---|---|---|---|
| L0 | Organization / value chain | Medical device company QMS | Quality manual |
| L1 | Process group | Core processes | Process map / interaction diagram |
| L2 | Process | Production | Process description, turtle diagram |
| L3 | Sub-process | Batch release | SOP, flowchart |
| L4 | Activity / task | Review batch record | Work instruction |
Management, core and support processes
- Management processes set direction and check performance: strategy, management review, internal audit, CAPA.
- Core processes create value for the customer: design, purchasing, production, delivery, servicing.
- Support processes enable the others: document control, training, infrastructure, IT.
Set the type on a Level 1 group and every process below it inherits the colour, unless you override it.
Process hierarchy example
The example maps the quality management system of a medical device company: management processes (management review, internal audit, CAPA, risk management), core processes from design to complaint handling, and support processes such as document control and training. Production and CAPA are broken down further into sub-processes, each with automatic codes like 2.3.4 for batch release.
Describe each process in more detail with a turtle diagram or a SIPOC, and map sub-processes with a flowchart.
How to use this Process Hierarchy Map tool
- Name the organization or value chain. Click the top banner and enter the organization, site or value chain you are mapping (Level 0).
- Create the process groups. Add Level 1 groups, for example management, core and support processes, and set their type for colour coding.
- Add processes. Use + under each group to add Level 2 processes, and add sub-processes inside them where needed.
- Assign owners. Click each process to add its owner and a short description of its scope.
- Review numbering and gaps. Codes such as 2.3.1 update automatically. Check that every requirement of your standard is covered by a process.
- Export. Export the map for your quality manual or the numbered list to Excel as a process register.
Frequently asked questions
What is a process hierarchy map?
A process hierarchy map (or process architecture) breaks an organization's processes into levels, from the value chain at the top, through process groups and processes, down to sub-processes and activities. It shows how all processes fit together and who owns each one.
What are process levels L0, L1, L2 and L3?
A common convention is: L0, the organization or value chain; L1, process groups such as management, core and support processes; L2, individual processes such as purchasing or production; L3, sub-processes; and L4, activities or tasks, usually described in work instructions.
What is the difference between management, core and support processes?
Core processes create value for the customer, such as design, production and delivery. Management processes steer the organization, such as strategy, management review and audits. Support processes enable the others, such as document control, training, IT and maintenance.
Does ISO 9001 require a process map?
ISO 9001 clause 4.4 requires the organization to determine its processes, their sequence and interaction, owners and criteria. A process hierarchy map, often combined with an interaction diagram, is a common way to show this to auditors.
How deep should the hierarchy go?
Most organizations map three levels on the architecture and describe deeper levels in flowcharts, SOPs and work instructions. Go deep enough that every process has a clear owner.
Can I export the process hierarchy?
Yes. Export the map as PDF or PNG, or the full numbered list of processes with owners to Excel or CSV. You can also save a file to edit later. It is free with no sign-up.