Principles/Steps/Symbols in Building Influence Charts

Influence charts are free form visual aides to help problem solvers get a high level view of their issues. Theses charts use a variety of symbols to show each part of the problem.





The hexagon represents an the objective or desired outcome. This is the end point of the solution.










The circle represents a variable or unknown value.










The triangle represents a fixed input parameter.










The double circle represents a random input parameter.










The square represents a decision.












Influence charts are similar to flow charts but without the strict rules. Think of an influence chart as a sketch of the problem that needs to be solved.