What is Task flow?
A task flow is a diagram showing the single path a user follows to complete a specific task, mapping each step and decision from start to completion without alternative paths or branches.
How it works
Task flows differ from user flows (which show multiple paths including branches and error states) and from user journey maps (which include emotional and contextual layers). A task flow is deliberately simple: it shows the intended happy path for one specific task, one step at a time. This simplicity makes task flows useful for verifying that a workflow is logical and complete before adding complexity. They are created using simple boxes (steps) and arrows (sequence), sometimes with diamond shapes for decision points. Task flows are typically the first design artifact created for a new feature.
Applied example
A task flow for ‘book a hotel room’ shows: Search → Select dates → View results → Choose room → Enter details → Confirm → Receive email. This clean sequence reveals that there is no step for comparing room types side-by-side, identifying a missing capability before wireframing begins.
Why it matters
Task flows strip interaction design down to its essential sequence, ensuring the logical structure of a workflow is sound before adding visual design, edge cases, and error handling.
