Flowcharts are one of the most commonly used diagram types by professionals to visualize processes, workflows, algorithms, and more. Microsoft Visio is considered the industry standard software for creating flowcharts and other diagrams due to its powerful features and simplicity.
This comprehensive guide will overview how to create Microsoft Visio flowcharts along with a step-by-step walkthrough of using EdrawMax flowchart maker. Let's get started.
In this article
Part 1. Overview of Microsoft Visio
Microsoft Visio is a popular diagramming and vector graphics program from Microsoft that allows users to easily create various professional diagrams such as flowcharts, site maps, organization charts, floor plans, and more using a simple drag-and-drop interface.
Part 2. Why Choose Visio Software For Creating Flowcharts
Here are some of the top reasons why professionals prefer Microsoft Visio for creating flowcharts:
Intuitive User Interface
The Ribbon-style UI in Visio is very intuitive with a logical grouping of tools making it easy to find flowcharting options quickly. Simple drag-and-drop of shapes from the Symbols gallery speeds up flowchart creation.
Connecting Shapes and Auto Alignment
Smart connectors in Visio make it seamless to connect flowchart shapes. The auto-align and dynamic grid features align symbols intelligently keeping the flowchart clean.
Data Linking Capabilities
Link shapes in flowcharts to data in Excel or SQL to create data-driven diagrams. As the data updates, so does the linked flowchart making it a powerful visualization aid.
Team Collaboration Features
Visio diagrams can be easily shared using its SharePoint integration. Co-authors can collaborate on the same Visio diagram simultaneously thanks to seamless co-authoring capabilities.
Seamless Export to Universal Formats
Easily share Visio flowcharts with others by exporting to universal formats like PDF, JPG, PNG, SVG, etc. Maintain security by removing sensitive data and exporting selective layers.
Part 3. How to Create a Simple Flowchart in Visio
Here are the step-by-step instructions to create a basic flowchart in Microsoft Visio:
Step 1: Launch Microsoft Visio on your PC. From the main interface, select the “Basic Flowchart” category.
Step 2: Pick a flowchart template or start with a blank canvas.
Step 3: Use the left menu pane to insert quick flowchart shapes onto the canvas. Double-click on flowchart shapes to add text.
Step 4: To link shapes together, use connectors. To do this, individually click on the shapes, and then choose the Connectors icon from the toolbar.
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Step 5: Next, personalize your created basic flowchart by adjusting its theme and background color. Access the Design tab at the top to make these modifications.
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Step 6: Save the flowchart in your preferred format by exporting the file accordingly. To achieve this, navigate to the File tab in the top menu and choose the Export option.
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Using the above steps, you can quickly create simple flowcharts as well as large complex diagrams in Microsoft Visio leveraging its extensive features.
Part 4. Best Visio Alternative - EdrawMax Simplifies Flowchart Creation
EdrawMax stands out as a robust diagramming and visualization solution, simplifying the creation of polished flowcharts without the hefty price tag associated with Microsoft Visio. This user-friendly tool ensures a seamless experience for crafting professional diagrams at a fraction of the expense.
Some key features of EdrawMax as a Visio alternative:
- Provides thousands of flowchart symbols and templates.
- Intuitive drag-and-drop editor for constructing flowcharts.
- Automatic connectors and alignment during flowcharting.
- Various customization tools for applying styles, effects, colors, etc.
- Collaborate with team members in real time.
- Available on Windows, Mac, Linux, and as a web app.
Let's look at how to create a flowchart using EdrawMax's user-friendly interface.
Part 5. Steps to Create a Process Flowchart in EdrawMax
Follow these simple steps to create a simple process flowchart using EdrawMax:
Step 1: Download and install EdrawMax software on your computer. Open the EdrawMax application. Navigate to File> New> Basic Flowchart. Choose a flowchart template that best suits your needs from the extensive template library.
Step 2: Utilize the drag-and-drop interface to add flowchart shapes onto the canvas. Connect them in the logical sequence of your process.
Step 3: Double-click on each shape to add text and details, providing clarity to each step in your flowchart.
Step 4: Personalize your flowchart by changing colors, styles, and fonts to enhance visual appeal and convey information effectively.
Step 5: Save your completed flowchart in a preferred format, and share it seamlessly with others or export it for presentations and documentation.
EdrawMax makes it easy for anyone to create professional-looking flowcharts with a minimal learning curve. The availability of EdrawMax across platforms is a big advantage over Visio.
Conclusion
Microsoft Visio continues to lead the market for flowchart software due to its powerful diagramming capabilities and simplicity. While the Visio desktop edition requires paid licenses, the free Visio web app provides basic diagramming features.
For advanced flowchart creation capabilities without the high costs, EdrawMax is the best alternative to Visio. It provides the same sophistication as Visio with an affordable one-time cost.
EdrawMax Desktop
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