Monday, July 6, 2009

The Pregnancy Flow Chart

To see a detailed version, open this PDF and zoom.
Most information from the chart from: The Cradle.com

About the Pregnancy Piece of Mind Flow Chart

The flow chart examines information variables (medical, lifestyle, work and fun) over time (1st, 2nd, 3rd trimester). The start point was placed in the upper left hand corner, and colored yellow to differentiate it as the starting point. Decision markers were made black, information boxes were blue, and circular, ending points were either green or red for a negative/alerting or positive result.

Occasionally, information had to be placed next to the chart but was not actually linked to it (see "Every Visit Checklist" and "Daily Vitamin Checklist".) I'm hoping the written cues in the decisionmarkers--see left, see far left--is enough direction for the viewer to understand what to do (i.e. to look at the checklist but keep on the flow chart.)

I also think that the flow chart displays the significance of the medical process. I think it's easy to get caught up in the "fun" stuff like buying baby clothes and thinking of baby names, but really the most important aspect of the pregnancy (i.e. having the most steps involved) is the medical part. It helps keep the pregnancy in perspective about what is important.

Project Expansion

With more time, I'd like to include the information regarding what some of those tests are as well as why some of those activities would be beneficial. Probably result in more informational boxes, not actually changing the process within the flow chart.