How to do a project's flow chart ?

Answer 1

The same way that porcupines copulate, very carefully ☺
It's in the planning stage that you make or break a project.

First, list all of the tasks required to do the project (mechanical design, electrical design, packaging, safety reviews, software, etc. etc.) Many of these (for a complex project) will be small 'projects' all by themselves. Also, note how much each task will cost in terms of material, resources, man-hours, etc.

Second, note all of the interdependencies between each of the tasks. (e.g. You can't start laying out printed circuit boards until the circuit has been designed). Note also all of the restrictions that will have to be met by each task (how big can it be, how much power can it use, etc. etc.)

Lastly, make up a chart with each of these tasks laid out horizontally in a 'time line'. Indicate about how long each task will take and be certain that you don't start a task that is dependent on another task before the other task has been completed.

That's the big picture. And it's incredibly important that you get it as close to right as possible. If you don't, you'll run out of time or money (usually both) long before the project is completed.

HTH

Doug