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Microsoft Visio vs OmniGraffle: What are the differences?
## Key Differences between Microsoft Visio and OmniGraffle
1. **Compatibility**: Microsoft Visio is compatible with Windows operating systems, while OmniGraffle is designed specifically for macOS. This difference in compatibility can influence the choice of software based on the operating system being used.
2. **User Interface**: Microsoft Visio offers a more familiar interface for users who are accustomed to Microsoft products, with a ribbon toolbar similar to other Office applications. On the other hand, OmniGraffle provides a simpler and more streamlined interface that may appeal to users looking for a less cluttered design.
3. **Collaboration Features**: Microsoft Visio integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft Office applications, making it easier to collaborate with colleagues who use these programs. In contrast, OmniGraffle offers better integration with macOS-specific tools and services, which can be advantageous for users within the Apple ecosystem.
4. **Cost and Licensing**: Microsoft Visio is a part of the Microsoft Office suite, which typically requires a subscription or one-time purchase for access. Meanwhile, OmniGraffle is a standalone software with a one-time purchase option, potentially making it a more cost-effective choice for users who do not require the full Office suite.
5. **Templates and Stencils**: Microsoft Visio provides a wide range of templates and stencils for various diagram types, catering to diverse user needs. OmniGraffle, while offering templates and stencils as well, may have a more limited selection compared to Visio, impacting the ease of creating specific types of diagrams.
6. **Advanced Features**: Microsoft Visio is known for its advanced diagramming capabilities, including data linking, advanced shapes, and more sophisticated design options. OmniGraffle, while powerful in its own right, may not offer as extensive a range of advanced features as Visio, which could be a crucial factor for users with complex diagramming requirements.
In Summary, the choice between Microsoft Visio and OmniGraffle often comes down to factors such as operating system preference, interface familiarity, collaboration needs, cost considerations, access to templates and stencils, and the requirement for advanced diagramming features.
Decisions about Microsoft Visio and OmniGraffle
Julien DeFrance
Principal Software Engineer at Tophatter · | 1 upvote · 373.7K views
When starting my new role at #Stessa, I needed a solution to start diagramming some of my #Architecture so I'd be able to share my views on #SystemArchitecture with the rest of the team.
Visualization is key. Especially when working with complex/distributed systems. You want to make sure everybody's got the same understanding of your approach, so you can better communicate, and start delegating more.In the past, I had worked with #VisualParadigm for #UML, in both desktop and #SaaS version of the product. Also worked with #LucidChart We also looked at potential alternatives such as Microsoft Visio for instance.
Ultimately, my recommendation was & we closed on Lucidchart, as it won on couple of key aspects : #Team #Collaboration, #Integrations with #AWS for instance, and certain specific visualizations we were looking for / others didn't have.
This isn't just for #Engineering. I've seen Lucidchart being used by #Product Teams, #Network #Engineers, #IT Departments, #DevOps, or non-Engineering related teams.
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- Libraries allow the quick creation of diagrams7
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What is Microsoft Visio?
Create flowcharts, diagrams, org charts, floor plans, engineering designs, and more, using modern shapes and templates with the familiar Office experience.
What is OmniGraffle?
Creators of Mac, iPad, and iPhone productivity software. Proud to bring you OmniFocus, OmniOutliner, OmniGraffle, and OmniPlan.
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Visual Studio
Visual Studio is a suite of component-based software development tools and other technologies for building powerful, high-performance applications.
Adobe Illustrator
The industry-standard vector graphics app lets you create logos, icons, sketches, typography, and complex illustrations for print, web, interactive, video, and mobile.
Flow
Flow is an online collaboration platform that makes it easy for people to create, organize, discuss, and accomplish tasks with anyone, anytime, anywhere. By merging a sleek, intuitive interface with powerful functionality, we're out to revolutionize the way the world's productive teams get things done.
Lucidchart
Solution for visual communication. Create online flowcharts, diagrams, UML sketches, and ER models.
Slack
Imagine all your team communication in one place, instantly searchable, available wherever you go. That’s Slack. All your messages. All your files. And everything from Twitter, Dropbox, Google Docs, Asana, Trello, GitHub and dozens of other services. All together.