26/03/2021
Identify and Analyze Cycles
A cycle is a group of interrelated processes used to initiate and perform an activity. Event cycles can be programmatic or financial. Programs usually contain several event cycles. For example, a human services program might include the following five cycles: outreach, eligibility determination, record keeping, service delivery, and monitoring.
The eligibility determination cycle might include interview, application form, verification, approval or denial, supervisory review, and initiate services or mail denial explanation.
Determine cycles of likely problem areas.
Prepare a written narrative or flow chart explaining how the cycle is supposed to be handled by describing each activity or transaction within the cycle.
Describe in the narrative: Who is performing each step? What is involved in the step? Any resulting documentation, for example, reports.
Review the information available in policy and procedure manuals. Also, use written materials such as organizational charts, job descriptions, reviews, checklists, department records, and reports.
Supplement written sources through conversations with and observations of appropriate staff.
Finally, "walk through" the process to be sure every item is understood.
