Photo: Pixabay Flowcharts are diagrams that play an increasingly important role in the business success of various activities, as they allow for a more efficient and effective understanding of operational processes. Therefore, as the demand for programs and software for creating this type of infographics increases, the supply in the online market also increases by leaps and bounds.Today, there are many flowchart programs on the Internet with different features and tools. Everyone wants to know which one is best, but it's not exactly a question with a right answer because it all depends on your real goals and needs. It is true that we can point to EdrawMax as the best value for money, but there are other suitable options to consider. That's why we've put together a short practical guide to help you make that choice, with everything you need to know about the best flowchart programs available.
EDRAWMAX As we mentioned, EdrawMax is probably the best program on the market for creating flowcharts and other types of diagrams. It is very complete software that makes the user's work easier thanks to a wide selection of functions and a very intuitive interface. However, one of the reasons why it stands out from the competition is the large number of templates, symbols and components available in the open library, which allows the user to follow all the rules for creating flowcharts. It is still an extremely economical solution considering the cost-benefit ratio, which makes it not only attractive but also competitive.
PROS:
> dozens of models are available
> intuitive and easy to use interface
> economical solution
> compatible with multiple file types
GLIFFY
Gliffy is software for creating flowcharts that uses so-called drag and drop technology, which is very intuitive. It's true that it doesn't allow you to create a flowchart in just 5 easy steps like EdrawMax, but it's not far behind. This makes it a recommended solution not only for experts but also for graphics beginners. With this in mind, Gliffy also offers a wide range of templates to help optimize user resources. It's also a program that offers a great user experience, which also explains why it's very popular among the student body.
PROS:
> Compatible with all operating systems
> Various templates are available for free
CONTRAS:
> Free trial for just 14 days.
COCOA
In addition to being a great flowchart creator, Cacoo is also a powerful collaboration tool. In other words, at a time when remote work is increasingly popular and widespread, Cacoo is a great solution for those who need to work as a team and in real time with diagrams and other visual solutions. The program also offers several features that help optimize this network, such as a notification system or real-time monitoring process. It is also compatible with different operating systems and different file types.
PROS:
> Various collaboration tools
> Very economical program
CONTRAS:
> Somewhat disastrous navigation
> Defective zoom tool
TERRASTRUCT Terrastruct is a program widely used by architects that allows easy and simple diagrams and flowcharts, but is also compatible with CAD-type drawing programs. It allows you to view graphs at different levels for a broader view and comes with all the basic tools you need to work easily, efficiently and quickly. It even supports multiple file types, which helps simplify what can sometimes seem complicated.
PROS:
> Very intuitive interface
> Compatible with architectural drawings
CONTRAS:
> A very expensive solution
PARADIGMA VISUAL ONLINE
As the name suggests, VisualParadigm Online is a digital tool for diagramming in general and flowcharting in practice. Thanks to drag and drop technology, it is quite easy to use and comes with several powerful features. For beginners, it also offers a library of tutorial videos that make everything very easy. It also has a free version where some tools are blocked.
PROS:
> Technological trailer
> Extremely fast and light program
CONTRAS:
> Classes only in English
DRAW.IO Finally, mention a freeware way to create flowcharts. draw.io is free and completely online, allowing you to create diagrams without having to download and install any type of application on your device. Therefore, it is a solution with some limitations, but it is equipped with all the basic functions you need. It also includes a library of dozens of shapes, templates, and symbols that you can also export and import to increase your options.
PROS:
> Completely free
> 100 percent online
CONTRAS:
> Function limitation
> Only works with Chrome