Software to design flow charts

In summary, the conversation discusses the need for a flowcharting tool to describe code used in a thesis project. Various options are suggested, including Visio, All Clear flowcharter, OpenOffice Draw, and Inkscape. It is noted that some drawing programs do not maintain connector links when objects are moved, but Dia and OpenOffice do have this capability. Ultimately, the recommendation is to use Dia or OpenOffice for Ubuntu, as they are simple and easy to use.
  • #1
FutureScience
10
0
I've been programming a lot for my thesis in Matlab.

I've to include a technical description for my job without being too specific about the code used. So my intention is to use nice flowcharts to describe what my scripts are doing.

What kind of software do you suggest me for drawing proper flow charts?

Thanks in advance!
 
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  • #2
  • #3
The last time I used a flow charting tool, I used All Clear flowcharter. You wrote pseudo-code and it would generate the flow chart (you had a choice of "styles", and could post edit the created flow chart). After our group had used it for a while, some of us in the group convinced the remainder in the group that the psuedo code did a better job of explaining what was going on than the flow charts, so the group switched to just using pseudo code for most of our work, and only using flow charts for some external presentations.
 
  • #4
I don't need to go deep in detail, but to give to the reader a brief idea of how the programm is working.
 
  • #5
Then visio, or even open office draw, should suffice.
 
  • #6
story645 said:
Then visio, or even open office draw, should suffice.

Perfect, I think I'm going with OpenOffice Draw!

Thanks!
 
  • #7
The issue with most drawing programs is they have no knowledge of connections between the objects in your flow chart, making it very time consuming to edit them. If you move an object around on your flow chart, none of the connections will move with it and you'll have to redraw those as well.
 
  • #8
rcgldr said:
The issue with most drawing programs is they have no knowledge of connections between the objects in your flow chart, making it very time consuming to edit them. If you move an object around on your flow chart, none of the connections will move with it and you'll have to redraw those as well.

http://inkscape.org/" (open source) maintains connector links when moving objects. A feature I really like is the "avoid" property that can be toggled for individual objects, so connector lines pass through, or are routed around the object.
 
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  • #9
rcgldr said:
The issue with most drawing programs is they have no knowledge of connections between the objects in your flow chart, making it very time consuming to edit them. If you move an object around on your flow chart, none of the connections will move with it and you'll have to redraw those as well.

So does open office...
 
  • #10
Another program is http://live.gnome.org/Dia" .
The Windows version can be downloaded http://dia-installer.de/" .

Example flowcharts created in Dia:
https://commons.lbl.gov/display/LPR/DrawingWithDia"
http://dipot.com/2009/01/how-i-post/"

1) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVsvsrzxmnI"
Explains everything from download to creating first diagrams

2) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmue3vltass"

---

Besides, http://programmersjournal.blogspot.com/2008/03/dia-vs-visio.html" of Visio (commercial program), Dia and Open Office.
 
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  • #11
There are many software available by which you can draw flow charts, however, I will recommend opt for http://www.visiotoolbox.com/2010/" as it is one of the best diagramming software to create flow charts and other diagrams, also it is simple and easy to use.
 
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  • #12
What software do you suggest for ubuntu? Dia looks fairly good to me.
 
  • #13
open office also works on ubuntu
 

1. What is software to design flow charts?

Software to design flow charts is a computer program or application that allows users to create visual representations of processes or workflows. It typically includes tools for creating shapes, connecting them with arrows, and adding text and color to create easy-to-follow diagrams.

2. What are the benefits of using software to design flow charts?

There are several benefits to using software to design flow charts. It can help improve communication and understanding of complex processes, make it easier to identify areas for improvement, and save time and effort compared to creating flow charts manually. Additionally, many software options offer various templates and customization options to suit different needs and preferences.

3. Is software to design flow charts user-friendly?

Most software to design flow charts is designed to be user-friendly with intuitive interfaces and drag-and-drop capabilities. However, the level of user-friendliness may vary depending on the specific software and the user's familiarity with similar programs. It is always recommended to try out a trial version or watch tutorial videos before purchasing or using the software.

4. Can software to design flow charts be used for other purposes?

While the main purpose of software to design flow charts is to create visual representations of processes, it can also be used for other purposes such as creating organizational charts, mind maps, and network diagrams. Some software may also have additional features for creating presentations or reports using the flow charts.

5. What are some popular software options for designing flow charts?

Some popular software options for designing flow charts include Microsoft Visio, Lucidchart, SmartDraw, and Gliffy. These options offer a variety of features and pricing plans to cater to different needs and budgets. It is recommended to research and compare different options to find the best fit for your specific needs.

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