visio

Visio is a diagramming and vector graphics application developed by Microsoft. It originated as Shapeware, was acquired by Microsoft in 2000, and later rebranded as Microsoft Visio. It is available as a desktop application for Windows and a web-based version, Visio for the web, and is distributed as part of various Microsoft 365 plans and as a standalone product. Visio is used to create a wide range of diagrams, including flowcharts, organizational charts, network diagrams, floor plans, process diagrams, and software diagrams such as UML and ER diagrams. It provides an extensive library of shapes and stencils, drag-and-drop tools, connectors, alignment and layout features, and templates to help standardize diagrams. Data integration features allow diagrams to reflect external data; for example, Data Graphics can visualize data values, and the Data Visualizer feature can generate diagrams from Excel data.

Visio files use the VSDX format by default, with support for older VSD files; diagrams can be exported to PDF, image formats, and SVG, and Visio can import and export CAD formats such as DWG and DXF. Collaboration is supported through SharePoint and OneDrive, enabling co-authoring and commenting. Areas of emphasis include business workflows, IT networks, and architectural planning, making Visio a common tool in enterprises and professional environments, while continuing to evolve with web-based access and cloud synchronization.