This article will cover some of the leading online platforms for designing flowcharts.
A flowchart is a graphic representation of the various stages in a process, typically depicted using different shapes. Flowchart software refers to a platform that facilitates the creation of a sequence diagram comprised of interconnected shapes that depict the flow, hierarchy, order, or structure of a plan or concept. These diagrams can vary from straightforward charts to more complex diagrams with multiple routes.
Frank and Lillian Gilbreth developed the concept of the flowchart in 1921 as a way to illustrate project processes and task dependencies. While creating a flowchart for a simple process may be straightforward, it can quickly become complicated as the number of processes increases.
That's where flowchart software programs come in handy.
These tools enable users to easily create, edit and share flowcharts with just a few mouse clicks. If you need an online flowchart software platform, this post reviews some of the best options available. Each well-known platform offers various features for creating interactive flowcharts to suit your needs.
1. Lucidchart
Lucidchart is a visual collaboration suite that enables teams to share and discuss ideas in a shared space similar to a whiteboard. Multiple stakeholders can collaborate from different locations using intelligent diagramming and cloud visualization to plan and combine ideas. Lucidchart operates on HTML5-supported browsers, eliminating the need for third-party software like Adobe Flash.
Teams can work together in real-time to create flowcharts, ERDs, BPMN, wireframes, mockups, network diagrams, org charts, and other visuals. Additionally, Lucidchart seamlessly integrates with a wide range of tools including G Suite, Google Drive, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Teams, Salesforce, Confluence, Jira, and more.
Features:
- Produce polished and organized diagrams
- Enhance efficiency with keyboard shortcuts
- Export flowcharts to PDF, JPG, PNG formats
- Seamlessly import and export flow diagrams
Pricing:
- Free – $0.00
- Individual – $7.95 per user per month
- Team – $9.00 per user per month
- Enterprise – contact sales
2. Microsoft Visio
Microsoft Visio is a software application for creating diagrams and vector graphics that belongs to the Microsoft Office suite. Originally developed by Shapeware Corporation in 1992 and later acquired by Microsoft in 2000, Visio is a powerful tool for creating flowcharts, organizational charts, floor plans, pivot diagrams, and other visual representations that assist in data visualization and process modeling. However, Visio is not currently available for Mac users.
Features:
- Convert Excel process map data to Visio diagrams with ease
- Effortlessly produce professional-quality diagrams
- Collaborate and share diagrams seamlessly with others
- Share diagrams easily and with high security
Pricing:
- Visio Plan 1 – $5.00 per user per month
- Visio Plan 2 – $15.00 per user per month
3. SmartDraw
SmartDraw was founded by Paul Stannard in 1994 and is a software program that enables users to create a variety of flowcharts. In addition to flowcharts, SmartDraw offers tools for producing calendars, decision trees, floor plans, forms, maps, network diagrams, organizational charts, project charts, and more. The program's built-in templates, tools, and symbols make it possible to create organization and structure charts in just minutes.
SmartDraw allows users to export flowcharts in a variety of formats, such as Excel, PDF, HTML, and image files, making it a versatile tool for anyone looking to create diagrams and increase their productivity. Some notable SmartDraw users include Coca-Cola Beverages, Hewlett-Packard, Nike, Nortech, Kent State University, and the US Department of Justice.
Features:
- The interface is intuitive with drag-and-drop functionality
- Shapes are automatically adjusted with the auto-adjust feature
- It seamlessly integrates with third-party software
- SmartDraw is available in over 100 languages
Pricing:
- Individual – $9.95 per month
- Team – $5.95 per month
- Site – $2,995 per month
4. OmniGraffle
OmniGraffle is an application for designing diagrams that is compatible with Apple products. It can be downloaded onto your device and used offline, offering flexibility in its use. Its main focus is creating mockups for software and websites, and it comes with a variety of pre-designed templates to expedite the process of creating landscaping projects or electrical diagrams. OmniGraffle caters to the needs of professionals who require visually appealing mockups for organizational or communicative purposes.
Features:
- AppleScript is a supported feature in OmniGraffle
- Using OmniGraffle, users can create tables and subgraphs
- Multiple editing windows can be used simultaneously in OmniGraffle
- Exporting layered files in formats like PSD (Adobe Photoshop) is possible in OmniGraffle
Pricing:
- OmniGraffle Subscription – $12.49 per month
5. Textografo
Julien Andrieu established Textografo in 2015, headquartered in Barcelona, Spain. Textografo is a cloud-based diagramming tool that allows users to create various types of diagrams such as flowcharts, mind maps, decision trees, organizational charts, and site maps.
Textografo provides users with the ability to animate diagrams, enhancing communication. The tool is used by organizations of all sizes in over 80 countries worldwide. Textografo's simple textual syntax simplifies the process of creating, updating, and collaborating on diagrams.
With Textografo, users can quickly design professional-looking diagrams, taking notes and converting them into polished visuals. The tool is utilized in a multitude of industries for process and software design, making it popular among product managers, business analysts, UX designers, developers, consultants, and managers.
Features:
- Textografo's text-to-diagram feature enables automatic diagram generation
- Displaying diagrams step-by-step is made easy with Textografo's one-click functionality
- Basic and cross-functional flowcharts are among the diagrams available in Textografo
- Users can download diagrams in PNG or PDF format from Textografo
- Textografo provides professional-looking themes to elevate the appearance of diagrams
Pricing:
- Essentials – $4.00 per user per month
- Premium – $14.00 per user per month
Bottom-line
In conclusion, there are numerous top online flowchart software options available, each offering unique features to suit various needs. These tools provide users with an efficient and effective way to create and collaborate on flowcharts, ultimately enhancing communication and productivity. To find the ideal online flowchart software for your needs, I suggest reviewing the options highlighted in this blog post and selecting the one that aligns most closely with your requirements.
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