A Process Visualization Method developped by Christoph Locher

A Process Visualization Method developped by Christoph Locher, Dr. Lüder Tockenbürger and Dr. Mathias Müller

Contracts include Processes • A contract is ruling a business between two parties • In performing contracts, the parties handle processes • The contract is – among ohters – to describe such processes including the rights and duties of the parties involved

Visualization of Processes • Design and description of processes are much easier if processes are represented in graphical form • Visualization of processes helps drafting contracts and reviewing drafts

• . . . is tailored to contract drafting • . . . is very simple • . . . limits itself to : – – 3 symbol elements 3 colors 3 line symbols 3 rules • . . . does not require prolonged training • . . . can be applied in the meeting when discussing a contract

3 Symbol Elements Event-Element (square) stands for an event or an action (advancing the process by one step). Example: A cetain piece of information is received by one party (an event), or a party submits a quotation (an action). Decision-Element (rhombus) stands for a decision situation. Example: Does the party want to accept a suggestion ? Legal Consequence-Element (coat of arms) stands for a legal consequence occurring at a certain stage in the process. Example: The product supplied is accepted.

3 Colors are sufficient for 2 -Parties-Contracts Yellow: the one party is involved Blue: the other party is involved Green: both parties are involved (typically for legal consequence elements)

3 Line-Symbols Arrow: Links two symbol elements; the element at the tip follows the other one in time R O Arrow with R: Links two symbols and states that the party responsible for the element at the tip is authorized to perform the action visualized by this element Arrow with O: Links two symbols and states that the party responsible for the element at the tip has the obligation to perform the action visualized by this element

3 Rules Rule 1: Every branch must end with a legal consequence element. Rule 2: A decision element is necessarily followed by – at least - two branches, the process splits. Rule 3: If a loop is made, the number of passes through this loop must be specified.

in Practice • • • Use a role of paper (or Easy. Flip) Post-it Stickers for the Symbol-Elements White Board Marker for the arrows No perfection is required ! Follow the rules and try to design processes that make sence and can be understood !

Visiolex-Box Order a Visiolex Box with all necessary items (such as all relevant stickers, white board marker, booklet) with christoph. locher@amglaw. ch