SOP: UX Flow Planning & Definition Process

1. Purpose

To define a structured, repeatable process for converting task scenarios and journey maps into clear UX flows, ensuring consistency, completeness, and developer alignment.

2. Scope

  • Applies to all new features, redesigns, or major UX updates.
  • Used by designers, PMs, and leads before wireframe execution.

3. Step-by-Step Process

Stage A – Preparation

  1. Review Inputs
    • Task Scenario Breakdown Sheet (Doc 2.1).
    • User Journey Map (Doc 2.2).
    • Discovery Summary Deck (EPIC 1.10).
  2. Define Flow Boundaries
    • Start point → end point.
    • Clarify what’s in scope vs. out of scope.

Stage B – Drafting Flows

  1. Create Flow Steps
    • Break user goals into flow steps with IDs (F1, F2, …).
    • Include happy path + error/edge cases.
  2. Map Decision Points
    • Use diamond nodes for all decision logic.
    • Each decision must have ≥ 2 branches (Yes/No, Success/Fail).
  3. Document System Responses
    • Capture backend/API/system behaviors for each step.
    • Include loading, empty, error states.

Stage C – Validation & Collaboration

  1. Peer Review
    • Share draft with another designer for logical completeness.
    • Use UX Flow Completeness Checklist (Doc 2.8).
  2. PM/Stakeholder Review
    • Validate flows against business goals & success metrics.
    • Annotate open questions for dev clarity.
  3. Dev Alignment (Optional)
    • If technical dependencies exist, validate with dev lead.

Stage D – Finalization

  1. Update Flow Diagram
    • Use UX Flow Diagram Template (Doc 2.4).
    • Clean up branches, ensure IDs are consistent.
  2. Sign-Off
    • Design Lead approves final flow.
    • Store in project repo → “Flows → Approved.”
  3. Transition to Wireframes
    • Use flows as blueprint for Wireframe Specification Template (EPIC 3).

4. Roles & Responsibilities

  • Designer Assigned → Creates flow steps, drafts diagram, documents notes.
  • Peer Designer → Reviews flow completeness.
  • PM/Account Manager → Validates against goals.
  • Design Lead → Approves final flow.
  • Dev Lead (Optional) → Confirms feasibility if complex logic.

5. Governance

  • No wireframes can begin until flows are signed off.
  • Flows missing edge cases or error states → sent back for revision.
  • Repeated violations → escalated to Delivery Head.

6. Review & Ownership

  • Owner: Design Lead.
  • Review Cycle: Flows should be revalidated if business goals or features shift.
  • Audit: Random monthly checks by lead for flow hygiene.

Outcome: Every UX flow is complete, logical, and validated, preventing costly redesigns during wireframe or dev stages.