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Flowingly – April Release Notes

Flowingly – April Release Notes

by | May 2, 2024 | Release Notes

Flowingly – April Release Notes

Get ready to explore the latest updates and enhancements in Flowingly with our April 2024 Release Notes!

We’re thrilled to introduce exciting new features and improvements designed to elevate your workflow management experience. From our powerful Power Automate connector to team notification updates, discover what’s new with the product this month.

What’s New?

Power Automate Connector

It’s never been easier to integrate with third-party applications. Leverage Flowingly step data elsewhere or populate Flowingly steps using third-party data effortlessly. Read more here. 

Team Email Notification Settings 

We’ve added a new option when it comes to notifying users of their tasks in Flowingly. If a team works out of a shared mailbox you can now ensure notifications are only sent to the shared mailbox instead of each user individually. Read more here. 

Other Release Notes (April 2024) 

  • Fixed issue where steps incorrectly had two Logo fields. 
  • Fixed issue where Option List mapping didn’t work in all scenarios. 
  • Updated datetime fields to include locale information, facilitating later conversion to UTC. 
  • Date and Datetime now formatted without time zone. 
  • Fixed inconsistency in sorting Process Maps. 
  • Deleted Flow Models no longer showing as reportable. 
  • Webhook data for child Flows does not include Flow Identifier. 
  • When the date field is optional, an offset value is applied even if no date is selected. 
  • Fixed issue where Step Tasks could not be added to a step.  
  • Fixed issue where required date field prevents Step submission if conditionally hidden. 
  • Added the comments section from a Flow to be available as variable in Custom Email body. 
  • Saved step form with date values in the format ‘D/MM/YYYY’ is not submitting. 
  • Fixed issue where Lookup Fields were not working with decisions. 
  • Fixed inconsistent access permissions with shared process maps. 
        How to Create Engaging Process Maps Your Team Will Actually Follow

        How to Create Engaging Process Maps Your Team Will Actually Follow

        by | Apr 29, 2024 | Process Improvement

        How to Create Engaging Process Maps Your Team Will Actually Follow

        Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these comprehensive best practices will guide you towards creating engaging process maps that drive efficiency and clarity. No fluff, no jargon – just practical tips to elevate your workflow game.

        Lay the Foundation with Clear Process Information

        Before diving into the nitty-gritty of building better process maps, you’ll first want to ensure your processes are clear and make sense. Think about the key information that everyone, from new hires to seasoned veterans, need to understand and follow the process.  

        Use plain language that everyone can understand, avoiding unnecessary jargon or technical terms. For example, instead of “utilise proprietary software,” opt for “use our in-house software tool.” 

        Example: In your expense approval process, provide detailed instructions that outline each step clearly. Ensure you specify what criteria they consider when reviewing expenses. For new employees, include links to relevant policies and guidelines to help them understand the process better. For veterans, highlight any recent updates or changes to the process to keep them informed and up-to-date. 

        Bring Your Processes to Life with Rich Content  

        Text-heavy process maps can be daunting and overwhelming.

        To enhance engagement and understanding, consider incorporating rich content such as videos, images, or links to relevant resources.  

        Example: if your process involves a specific software application, embed a tutorial video demonstrating how to navigate it effectively. A five-minute video will be much more helpful than a 50-page PDF. Likewise, provide links to company policies or guidelines to provide additional context where needed. 

        Master the Art of Process Design  

        Designing a process map is similar to crafting a well-oiled machine – every component should fit seamlessly together to achieve optimal efficiency.

        Start by outlining the main steps of your process in chronological order, ensuring that each step logically flows into the next.  

        Example: Let’s say you’re mapping out an employee onboarding process. Begin by identifying the key stages, such as recruitment, orientation, and training. Then, break down each stage into smaller, actionable steps, such as conducting interviews, completing paperwork, and assigning mentors.  

        Use Flowingly’s visual editor to arrange these steps in a logical sequence, ensuring a smooth transition from one stage to the next. With process linking in Flowingly, you can also build out a mega process with all the onboarding sub-processes in one. 

        Simplify, Simplify, Simplify  

        Complexity is the enemy of efficiency. As you design your process map, keep an eye out for opportunities to streamline and simplify.  

        Are there any redundant steps that can be eliminated without sacrificing quality? Any bottlenecks that need to be addressed to improve flow?  

        By trimming the fat and focusing on what truly matters, you can create leaner, more efficient workflows that minimise delays and errors. 

        Example: In your employee onboarding process, you may discover that certain administrative tasks, such as filling out multiple forms, can be consolidated and done all at once (i.e. tax forms, KiwiSaver, contact details). By centralising these tasks and automating repetitive processes, you can reduce paperwork and streamline the onboarding experience for new hires. 

        Embrace Best Practices for Process Mapping 

        To ensure consistency and clarity across your process maps, it’s essential to embrace established best practices. Standardising naming conventions, using consistent symbols and colours, and documenting exceptions and variations are just a few examples of best practices to incorporate into your workflow design. 

        Example: Adopt a standardised naming convention for activities and decision points within your process maps. For instance, use clear and descriptive labels such as “Review Application” or “Approve Request” to ensure that everyone understands the purpose of each step. Consistency in naming conventions makes it easier for team members to navigate and understand complex workflows. 

        So there you have it – a comprehensive guide to building engaging process maps in Flowingly. By following these best practices and incorporating real-world examples into your workflow design, you can create streamlined, efficient processes that drive success for your organisation. Happy mapping! 

        The Flowingly Blog

        Get the flow-down on all things Flowingly. From process tips to product, we cover everything you need to level up your processes.

        Flowingly Product Update – Power Automate Connector

        Flowingly Product Update – Power Automate Connector

        by | Apr 19, 2024 | Release Notes

        Flowingly Product Update – Power Automate Connector

        Level Up Your Process Integrations with Our New Power Automate Connector

        We’re thrilled to introduce an exciting new update that will enable you to integrate your processes like never before! Say hello to Flowingly’s Custom Connectors – designed to integrate your systems with the Power Automate platform. 

          What’s New? 

          🚀 Custom Triggers for Ultimate Flexibility 

          When a Flow Step is Submitted: Activate Power Automate actions immediately after the submission of a step. This trigger ensures that your processes stay in sync, creating a seamless workflow that adapts to your team’s pace. 

          Example Use Case: Imagine a scenario where your sales team completes a critical step in the pipeline. Instantly, relevant information is shared with your CRM system, updating records and triggering automated follow-up actions. 

          When a Flow Step is Created: Trigger actions based on the creation of a specific step. This provides unparalleled flexibility in adapting automation to the unique dynamics of your business processes. 

          🌐 Seamless Integration for Flow Model Builders 

          It’s never been easier to integrate with third-party applications. Leverage Flowingly step data elsewhere or populate Flowingly steps using third-party data effortlessly. 

          Example Use Case: Picture a scenario where your procurement process involves external vendor verification. With Flowingly’s Custom Connectors, relevant data from your vendor management system can seamlessly integrate with your procurement workflow, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. 

          This update is all about making connecting to the Microsoft tech stack as simple and easy as possible since Power Automate is the world’s most used integration platform. We’re excited to see the endless number of ways team use it to take their processes to the next level. 

          How to Get Started? 

          We’ve crafted comprehensive documentation in our knowledge base that walks you through the setup of these custom connectors, making integration a breeze. Check out the documentation here. 

          You can also check out the full list of connectors available with Power Automate here. 

          The era of limitless automation possibilities is here, and Flowingly’s Custom Connectors are your passport to this exciting journey. 

          Flowingly – March Release Notes

          Flowingly – March Release Notes

          by | Apr 2, 2024 | Release Notes

          Flowingly – March Release Notes

          Get ready to explore the latest updates and enhancements in Flowingly with our March 2024 Release Notes!

          We’re thrilled to introduce exciting new features and improvements designed to elevate your workflow management experience. From seamless process map linking to enhanced sharing options and revamped step rules, discover how these updates empower you to streamline your processes with ease.

          What’s New?

          Process Map Linking 

          Our latest update is about to redefine how you visualise and navigate your processes – introducing Process Map linking! Connecting processes and navigating seamlessly between them has never been more accessible. 

          Link any published process maps together by using components to allow for seamless navigation between processes. Read more here.  

          Process Map Sharing & Embedding 

          We’re excited to announce an exciting new feature that will help process maps more collaborative and accessible.

          Sharing your process maps has never been easier, whether it’s with your team, externally with partners, suppliers or contractors, or embedded on external websites. Read more here.  

          Step Rules Overhaul 

          While the base functionality of Step Rules remains the same, we have increased the scope of Step Rules to allow for multiple rules per step and multiple actions per rule. Read more here.  

          Sub-Categories 

          Simplify your workflow and process map dashboards through the use of sub-categories. Create a hierarchical structure up to 3 levels deep. Read more here. 

          Other Release Notes (March 2024) 

          • Process Maps as components not updating links when published. 
          • Categories not showing names on Reports page intermittently. 
          • Public Map showing access error message while clicking steps. 
          • [Library Page] The status “Published Public” should be retained when a public process map is edited. 
          • Show public link and embed code as disabled. 
          • Inconsistency while trying to update a Process Owner. 
          • New Category not visible without refresh. 
          • Maps page giving time out issue. 
          • Flow Model with deleted Category breaks reports page. 
          • Category displayed is the first one instead of the actual category during editing, if there are duplicate names. 
          • User Reference Fields to Have Email Id in Webhook Message. 
          • Update step fields action not updating the value for the type of currency. 
          • Added Flowingly logo to login screen.  
          Flowingly Product Update – Process Map Sharing

          Flowingly Product Update – Process Map Sharing

          by | Mar 14, 2024 | Release Notes

          Flowingly Product Update – Process Map Sharing

          Making Sharing Process Knowledge Easier than Ever 

          We’re excited to announce an exciting new feature that will help process maps more collaborative and accessible – introducing process map sharing in Flowingly! Sharing your process maps has never been easier, whether it’s with your team, externally with partners, suppliers or contractors, or embedded on external websites.  

            What’s New? 

            📨 Internal Sharing: Connect Within Your Organisation 

            Share your insights seamlessly within your organisation by enabling internal sharing. With just a click, your team can access and collaborate on process maps, fostering a culture of shared knowledge and efficient workflows. 

            🖐️ External Sharing: Extend Collaboration Beyond Your Walls 

            Extend collaboration beyond your organisation by sharing process maps externally with third parties such as partners, suppliers or contractors. Empower external entities with a comprehensive view of your processes, promoting transparency and alignment. 

            🌐 Embed in External Websites: Showcase Your Work Dynamically 

            Take your process maps to the next level by embedding them in external websites. Whether it’s a client portal, partner platform, or public website, your process maps can now be seamlessly integrated, ensuring stakeholders always have access to the latest information. 

            🔒 Public Sharing Setting: Full Control at Your Fingertips 

            Manage the process of sharing with the new Public Sharing Setting. Users now have the ability to set the sharing status to public or private, ensuring that sensitive information is kept secure.  

            🎯 Effortless Filtering for Efficient Management 

            Enhance your management efficiency with the ability to filter maps based on their sharing status. Easily find and manage public maps with a dedicated filter, streamlining your workflow and keeping everything organised. 

            👁‍🗨 Public View for External Stakeholders 

            For public users, accessing a shared process map is simplified with a public URL. No login required – just click the link and gain instant access to the mapped processes. 

            Ready to start sharing? 

            Embrace a new era of collaboration and accessibility with process map sharing. Explore our new sharing features now and revolutionise the way you share, collaborate, and showcase your workflows. 

            For a more detailed view of how to share process maps in Flowingly or how to embed a map in your website refer to our knowledge base.