What does a process map illustrate?

A process map serves as a visual representation that illustrates the flow of a production process through the various stages of the production system. It depicts the sequence of activities, decisions, inputs, and outputs involved in the production process, providing a clear and accessible overview of how products are created and moved through the system. By mapping out these processes, organizations can identify bottlenecks, redundancies, and areas for improvement, ultimately fostering a more efficient and effective production environment.

In contrast, options regarding financial flow, time schedules, and performance data focus on specific aspects of production but do not encompass the overall flow and interdependence of activities. Financial maps would concentrate on costs and revenues, while time schedules delineate when tasks should be completed rather than how they interact. Performance data, on the other hand, measures results but does not provide a step-by-step guide through the production process itself. Thus, the primary purpose of a process map is to convey a comprehensive understanding of the production flow, making option C the most accurate choice.