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Microsoft Visio: Everything you need to Know 

Create beautiful flowcharts, wireframes, floor plans, and more with Microsoft Visio. Learn what Microsoft Visio is, who uses it, how to use MS Visio, and more.

Microsoft visio guide

Microsoft Visio is a powerful diagramming tool that can help you visualize and communicate ideas more effectively.

In this comprehensive Microsoft Visio guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about Microsoft Visio. We’ll talk about the features of Microsoft vision, the price of Microsoft Visio, how to use Microsoft vision, Microsoft Visio alternatives, and more.

Let’s dive in!

Microsoft Visio Guide: TL;DR

  • Microsoft Visio is a great drawing product with a wide range of features that make it a powerful diagramming tool.
  • The ability to create both simple and complex diagrams
  • A wide range of shapes and symbols to choose from
  • The ability to add text, notes, and hyperlinks to diagrams
  • The ability to share diagrams online or via email
  • An easy-to-use interface
  • Microsoft Visio is also very affordable, making it a great option for individuals and businesses. 
  • You can buy Microsoft Visio as a standalone product or as part of the Microsoft Office suite.
  • If you're looking for an alternative to Microsoft Visio, there are a few other options worth considering. Some of these alternatives include draw.io, yEd, Dia, and more.

Introduction to Microsoft Visio

Here are the basic things you need to know about Microsoft Visio:

What is Microsoft Visio, and what does it do?

Microsoft Visio is a powerful diagramming tool that can help you visualize and communicate ideas more effectively. Microsoft Visio is part of the Microsoft Office suite and is also available as a standalone product.

With Microsoft Visio, you can create diagrams of all kinds, including flowcharts, mind maps, org charts, UML diagrams, floor plans, network diagrams, and more.

MS Visio uses shapes and symbols to build diagrams, and you can also add text, notes, and hyperlinks to your diagrams. 

Uses of Microsoft Visio 

Microsoft Visio can be used for a wide range of purposes, including:

  • Creating diagrams for business presentations
  • Generating network diagrams
  • Mapping out process flows
  • Constructing org charts
  • Designing floor plans
  • Building UML diagrams
  • And more!

Who Uses Microsoft Visio?

Microsoft Visio is a tool that individuals and businesses of all sizes can use. Microsoft Visio is popular among business professionals, such as project managers, engineers, architects, and more.

Microsoft Visio is also a great tool for students and teachers. With Microsoft Visio, students can create diagrams to visualize concepts and ideas more effectively. 

Microsoft Visio can also be used to create mind maps, which can help students organize and study for exams more effectively.

Microsoft Visio versions

 Microsoft Visio comes in two versions: 

  • Standard
  • Professional
  • Microsoft Visio Pro for Office 365

Microsoft Visio Standard is a great option for individuals who need to create simple diagrams. Microsoft Visio Professional is a more powerful version of Microsoft Visio that includes additional features, such as the ability to reverse-engineer diagrams from existing data sources.

Microsoft Visio Edition 

The editions of Microsoft Visio are

  • Microsoft Visio 2003
  • Microsoft Visio 2010
  • Microsoft Visio 2013
  • Microsoft Visio 2016
  • Microsoft Visio 2019
  • Microsoft Visio 2021

Microsoft Visio pricing

Microsoft Visio is very affordable, especially when you compare it to other powerful diagramming tools on the market. 

  • MS Visio Standard costs about $299; give or take.
  • Microsoft Visio Professional costs about $589; give or take.

 However, if you purchase Microsoft Visio as part of the Microsoft Office suite, you can save significant money.

Microsoft Visio Features; Basic Features

Microsoft Visio has a wide range of features that make it a powerful diagramming tool. Some of these features include:

  • The ability to create both simple and complex diagrams
  • A wide range of shapes and symbols to choose from
  • The ability to add text, notes, and hyperlinks to diagrams
  • The ability to share diagrams online or via email
  • An easy-to-use interface 

Microsoft Visio is also very affordable, making it a great option for individuals and businesses alike. You can buy Microsoft Visio as a standalone product, or as part of the Microsoft Office suite.

Where to get Microsoft Visio

Microsoft Visio is available for purchase from the Microsoft Store and Microsoft reseller retail stores like SOftwareKeep. Microsoft Visio is also available as part of the Microsoft Office suite. Buy Microsoft Visio as a stand alone app or part of MS Office suite from SoftwareKeep at great discounts. 

How to use Microsoft Visio: Basic Microsoft Visio User Guide

Microsoft Visio is a powerful diagramming tool that can help you visualize and communicate ideas more effectively. With Microsoft Visio, you can create diagrams of all kinds, including flowcharts, mind maps, org charts, UML diagrams, floor plans, network diagrams, and more.

Getting Started with Microsoft Visio

To get started with Microsoft Visio, simply launch the program and choose the type of diagram you want to create from the templates. Then, start adding shapes and symbols to your diagram. 

You can also add text, notes, and hyperlinks to your diagrams. Microsoft Visio is very easy to use, and you'll create professional-looking diagrams in no time!

How to create a basic diagram in Visio

  1. Launch Microsoft Visio.
  2. On the File menu, click New > Basic Diagram.
  3. Click the type of diagram you want to create.
  4. Drag shapes onto your drawing canvas to create your diagram.
  5. Add text, notes, and hyperlinks to your diagram as needed.
  6. Save your diagram.

How to add shapes, lines, and text to your diagram 

  1. Launch Microsoft Visio.
  2. On the File menu, click New > Basic Diagram.
  3. Click the type of diagram you want to create.
  4. Drag shapes onto your drawing canvas to create your diagram.
  5. To add lines, click the "Lines" button on the toolbar and then click and drag to draw lines between shapes.
  6. To add text, click the "Text" button on the toolbar and then click on the shape where you want to add text. A text box will appear. Type your text into the text box.
  7. Save your diagram.

How to format your shapes and text 

  1. Launch Microsoft Visio.
  2. On the File menu, click New > Basic Diagram.
  3. Click the type of diagram you want to create.
  4. Drag shapes onto your drawing canvas to create your diagram.
  5. To format your shapes, right-click on the shape and select "Format Shape." A dialog box will appear. Use the options in the dialog box to format your shape.
  6. To format your text, right-click on the text box and select "Format Text." A dialog box will appear. Use the options in the dialog box to format your text.
  7. Save your diagram. 

How to add hyperlinks to your diagram 

  1. Launch Microsoft Visio.
  2. On the File menu, click New > Basic Diagram.
  3. Click the type of diagram you want to create.
  4. Drag shapes onto your drawing canvas to create your diagram.
  5. To add a hyperlink, right-click on the shape and select "Add Hyperlink." A dialog box will appear.
  6. In the "Address" field, type in the URL of the website you want to link to.
  7. In the "Text to display" field, type in the text you want to display on your shape.
  8. Click "OK."
  9.  Save your diagram.

How to connect shapes and lines in your diagram 

  1. Launch Microsoft Visio.
  2. On the File menu, click New > Basic Diagram.
  3. Click the type of diagram you want to create.
  4. rag shapes onto your drawing canvas to create your diagram.
  5. To connect two shapes with a line, click on the "Lines" button on the toolbar and then click and drag to draw a line between the two shapes.
  6. To add arrows to your lines, right-click on the line and select "Format Shape." A dialog box will appear.
  7. In the "Line" tab, select the type of arrow you want from the "Begin style" and "End style" drop-down menus.
  8. Click "OK and Save your diagram.

Tips and tricks for creating better diagrams with Visio  

  1. Use a template: Microsoft Visio comes with a wide variety of templates that you can use to get started on your diagrams. To access the templates, click on the "File" menu and then select "New > Template." Or, you can search for a specific template by clicking on the "Search for online templates" link.
  2. Use the grid: The grid in Microsoft Visio can be very helpful when you're trying to align shapes and objects in your diagram. To turn on the grid, click on the "View" menu and then select "Grid." You can also use the "Snap & Glue" feature to automatically align and connect shapes.
  3. Use layers: Layers are a great way to organize your diagram and make it more readable. To create a new layer, click on the "Layers" button on the toolbar and then click "Add Layer." You can then drag shapes onto different layers and turn them on or off as needed.
  4. Add dimensions: Adding dimensions to your diagram can make it more accurate and professional-looking. To add a dimension, click on the "Dimensions" button on the toolbar and then click and drag to draw a line between two points. You can also add text labels to dimensions.
  5. Export as an image: Microsoft Visio diagrams can be exported as images so that they can be easily shared online or inserted into other documents. To export your diagram as an image, click on the "File" menu and then select "Export." Choose the image format you want to use and then click "Export." 
  6. Print your diagram: Microsoft Visio diagrams can be printed on standard printers or plotters. To print your diagram, click on the "File" menu and then select "Print." Choose the printer you want to use and then click "Print." 
  7. Save as a PDF: Microsoft Visio diagrams can also be saved as PDFs. To save your diagram as a PDF, click on the "File" menu and then select "Save As." Choose "PDF" from the drop-down menu and then click "Save." 
  8. Use the shape sheets: The shape sheets in Microsoft Visio are a great way to customize the appearance of your shapes. To access the shape sheets, click on the "View" menu and then select "Shapesheet." Or, you can right-click on a shape and select "Show Shapesheet." 
  9. Use add-ons: There are a variety of add-ons available for Microsoft Visio that can help you do more with your diagrams. To find add-ons, click on the "File" menu and then select "Add-Ons." Or, you can search for add-ons online.
  10. Get help: If you need help using Microsoft Visio, click on the "Help" menu and then select "Visio Help." You can also find a variety of helpful tutorials and videos online. 

Creating a great Microsoft Visio diagram takes some practice, but with these tips and tricks, you'll be creating professional-looking diagrams in no time!

11 Microsoft Visio alternatives 

Microsoft Visio is a great tool for creating diagrams, but there are a variety of alternatives available that offer different features and prices. Choose the tool that best suits your needs and budget:

  1. Lucidchart: Lucidchart is a great alternative to Microsoft Visio which offers a wide range of features and templates. Lucidchart also has a free version that you can use for personal projects.
  2. Google Drawings: Google Drawings is a free online drawing tool that you can use to create diagrams, charts, and other images. Google Drawings can be accessed from any web browser.
  3. Inkscape: Inkscape is a free vector drawing program that you can use to create diagrams, illustrations, and logos. Inkscape is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
  4. Adobe Illustrator: Adobe Illustrator is a professional vector drawing program that you can use to create illustrations, logos, and diagrams. Adobe Illustrator is available for both Windows and macOS.
  5. Sketch: Sketch is a professional vector drawing program specifically designed to create user interface designs. Sketch is available for both Windows and macOS. 
  6. Microsoft PowerPoint: Microsoft PowerPoint is a program you can use to create slideshows. Microsoft PowerPoint is available for both Windows and macOS. 
  7. CorelDRAW: CorelDRAW is a professional vector drawing program that you can use to create illustrations, logos, and diagrams. CorelDRAW is available for both Windows and macOS. 
  8. Canva: Canva is a free online design platform that you can use to create diagrams, charts, and other images. Canva can be accessed from any web browser. 
  9. Gliffy: Gliffy is a great alternative to Microsoft Visio that offers a wide range of features and templates. Gliffy also has a free version that you can use for personal projects. 
  10. OmniGraffle: OmniGraffle is a professional vector drawing program that you can use to create diagrams, illustrations, and logos. OmniGraffle is available for both macOS and iOS.
  11. Draw.io: A free online diagramming tool that supports a wide range of diagrams, including flowcharts, UML diagrams, network diagrams, and more.

Conclusion

Microsoft Visio is a great tool for creating diagrams, flowcharts, and other visual representations of ideas. It's easy-to-use interface, and wide range of features make it a great option for individuals and businesses alike. So, whether you're looking to create a simple flowchart or a complex business process diagram, Microsoft Visio is the right tool for the job.

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Microsoft Visio FAQ 

What is Microsoft Visio?

Microsoft Visio is a diagramming and vector drawing program that helps you create professional-looking diagrams.

What are the features of Microsoft Visio?

Microsoft Visio offers a wide range of features, including the ability to create flowcharts, network diagrams, org charts, and more.

What is the price of Microsoft Visio?

Microsoft Visio has a variety of pricing options, depending on the version you choose. The Standard version starts at $299, while the Professional version starts at $589.

Is Visio included in Office 365?

Yes. But, Visio in Microsoft 365 brings core Visio capabilities to Microsoft 365 commercial subscribers at no additional cost. Create, edit, and share diagrams in Visio for the web or in Microsoft Teams as part of your Microsoft 365 subscription.

Microsoft Visio Pro for Office 365, available as a subscription through Microsoft Office 365, allows users to install Visio on up to five PCs running Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 7 or Windows 8.

How do I use Microsoft Visio?

Microsoft Visio is easy to use, thanks to its intuitive interface. Simply drag and drop shapes onto the canvas to create your diagrams.

What are some Microsoft Visio alternatives?

There are a number of Microsoft Visio alternatives, including Lucidchart, Google Drawings, Inkscape, Adobe Illustrator, Sketch, and more.

Is Microsoft Visio available for both Windows and macOS?

Yes, Microsoft Visio is available for both Windows and macOS.

Is there a free version of Microsoft Visio?

No, Microsoft Visio does not have a free version. However, there are some free alternatives, such as Lucidchart, Google Drawings, and Inkscape.