Excellent Data Flow Diagram Creators You Can Try
Data flow diagrams let you take any information flow for a process or system and organize it into a logical, understandable graphic. A data flow diagram is essential, especially in business. It is the best way to see and understand the flow or the process of the business itself. So, to discover the applications you can use for creating your data flow diagram, you must read this article from beginning to end. It will provide you with the software you will need. Additionally, we will show you the advantages and disadvantages of each data flow diagram software. Without further ado, read this honest review.
- Part 1: Data Flow Diagram Software
- Part 2: Excellent Data Flow Diagram Creators Online
- Part 3: Offline Data Flow Diagram Software
- Part 4: FAQs about Data Flow Diagram Software
As one main writer of MindOnMap's editorial team, I always provide real and verified information in my posts. Here are what I usually do before writing:
- After selecting the topic about data flow diagram software, I always do a lot of research on Google and in forums to list the program that users care about the most.
- Then I use all the data flow diagram makers mentioned in this post and spend hours or even days testing them one by one.
- Considering the key features and limitations of these data flow diagram creators, I conclude what use cases these tools are best for.
- Also, I look through users' comments on these data flow diagram makers to make my review more objective.
Part 1: Data Flow Diagram Comparison Table
| Application | Difficulty | Platform | Pricing | Features |
| MindOnMap | Easy | Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Safari, Microsoft Edge, Opera Safari. | Free | Auto saving process Good for team collaboration Offers smooth exporting process Great for mind mapping |
| MindManager | Easy | Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari | Essentials | Create various maps, illustrations, etc. Create Projects. Effective for brainstorming/collaboration |
| Visual Paradigm | Easy | Window, Mac | One-time license: $109.99 Monthly | Excellent in creating data flow diagrams, flowcharts, maps, and more. |
| Microsoft PowerPoint | Easy | Windows, Mac | One-time license: $109.99 Monthly | Creating presentations. Save output into various formats. |
| XMind | Easy | Windows, Linux, Mac | $59.99 Annually | Reliable for project management Good for team collaboration |
Part 2: Excellent Data Flow Diagram Creator Online
MindOnMap
The best data flow diagram software you can use online is MindOnMap. You may create data flow diagrams online for free with this tool. You can understandably organize your data with the aid of this program. Additionally, this online tool provides a variety of features, including different shapes, lines, text, font styles, designs, arrows, and more, to help you create a data flow diagram that is excellent and well-organized. Also, MindOnMap offers pre-made templates that allow you to put your data on them. In addition, you may automatically save your work while working on your diagram because the Auto Saving process is one of the best aspects of this application. In this manner, if you unintentionally close the application, you won't have to worry about losing your work. Moreover, you can download your diagram in various formats, including JPG, PNG, PDF, SVG, DOC, and more. You can also utilize this tool for creating an outline, travel guide, brochures, project plan, etc.
Secure Download
Secure Download
PROS
- Create unlimited maps for free.
- It offers pre-made data flow diagram templates.
- It has an intuitive interface with the basic procedure of creating a diagram suitable for non-professional users.
- It can save your diagram automatically.
CONS
- An internet connection is required to operate the application.
MindManager
With more features than the typical mind mapping tool, MindManager obviously exceeds the competition and is the finest way to build data flow diagrams that meet your needs. Another feature is to create concept maps, timelines, flowcharts, graphs, and any other manner you might think of to visualize your data.
PROS
- Perfect for beginners.
- It offers various free templates.
CONS
- Internet access is needed to use the software.
- Purchase a plan for more great features.
- Using the free trial has limits.
Visual Diagram
The Visual Paradigm is a reliable online tool for creating data flow diagrams. You may quickly start making your diagrams with the help of software. It offers all the resources you need to create your diagram, including shapes, text, lines, colors, themes, and more. This diagram creator also offers several ready-to-use templates. Additionally, after finishing the creation of your map, you may continue to edit and see it in Microsoft Office programs like Word, Excel, OneNote, and others. There is a free version of this application. However, it has a lot of restrictions. Basic templates, diagram symbols, chart types, and other items are all you can obtain. Additionally, if you don't have internet connectivity, you can't use this program.
PROS
- It offers numerous tools and templates.
- Suitable for beginners.
CONS
- It has limitations when using the free version.
- An internet connection is highly recommended.
Part 3: Offline Data Flow Diagram Software
Microsoft Word
Microsoft Word can be used as a data flow diagram creator. It offers a variety of features, like forms, lines, arrows, text, designs, and more. This tool makes constructing a diagram simple. Additionally, Microsoft Word has functions other than those for constructing a data flow. This offline application lets you create invitation cards, brochures, formal letters, and more. However, there are no data flow diagram templates available in this application. And to view more features, you must purchase the software.
PROS
- Suitable for new users.
- It provides different tools, such as shapes, text, colors, etc.
CONS
- It doesn’t offer data flow diagram templates.
- Purchase the application to get more excellent features.
- The installation process is complicated.
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft PowerPoint is one of the best data flow diagram tools you can use. Additionally, this offline software provides various diagramming components, including color, font styles, text, shapes, and more. Unfortunately, it is challenging to download and install it on your smartphone. To install this app, you must ask someone who is familiar with the process because it is complicated. This instrument is also pricey.
PROS
- Easy to utilize.
- It has elements for diagramming, like shapes, font styles, colors, lines, and more.
CONS
- The application is costly.
- To experience more features, buy the software.
XMind
Another downloadable tool you may use to make a data flow diagram is Xmind. You can use this program to organize information, plan projects, generate ideas, and, most importantly, create data flow diagrams. This application is perfect for all users because it can be used on Windows, Mac, Linux devices, etc. Additionally, Xmind is a user-friendly program that is appropriate for beginners. Additionally, it offers stickers and artists so that you may add creativity and detail to your knowledge map. Additionally, you can include an audio recording on your map, which helps you recall more about the subject or the information contained in the diagram.
PROS
- Offers ready-to-use templates.
- Useful in organizing data.
- Good for beginners.
CONS
- The exporting option is not available on the free version.
- Purchasing the software is costly.
Part 4: FAQs about Data Flow Diagram Software
1. What are some of the mistakes in the data flow diagram process?
There are times when the input is not aligned with the output in the diagram. It can create confusion in the process.
2. What is the importance of a data flow diagram?
You can visually show the process of the work itself. It visualizes external entities in information systems, data depositories, and the data flow.
3. What are the rules of the data flow diagram?
There are two important rules you have to remember. The data should not flow between two entities. Also, the data should not flow between two data storages.
Conclusion
There you have it! You can utilize the data flow diagram software when creating a data flow diagram. But, if you prefer a simpler and easy-to-use application, use MindOnMap. It has an intuitive interface that is suitable for all users. Also, it doesn’t require an installation process. So you can use it directly in your browser.
