Data Flow Diagram Visio Alternative for Mac
Data Flow
Need to use Visio but hate its high cost? You can find a data flow diagram Visio alternative instead. To benefit Mac users, Edraw has newly released a Mac version allowing users to create data flow diagram easily on Mac OS X system. More functions and resources at lower price, why not? Try it for free right now.
Video - The Best Cross-Platform Visio Alternative
Download Data Flow Diagram Software to Work on Mac:
Visio-Like Data Flow Diagram Software
Edraw is a vector based diagramming software containing similar features with Visio that includes more shapes, templates and online resources. It helps users to easily design data flow diagrams with ready-made symbols and templates. The data flow diagram symbols are fully customizable. The interface assembles Microsoft Word, thus very easy to use. With this Visio-like program, users can develop professional data flow diagram in a way faster than you think.
Why Edraw is a Solid Visio Alternative for Data Flow Diagram on Mac
- Much improved user interface - similar toolbar and icons with Word to assist ease of use.
- Optimized for use with all screen resolutions.
- Contains vector pre-made symbols that can increase drawing efficiency.
- Provides abundant templates and examples to help you avoid wasting time in formatting and focus on content.
- Includes extensive manual, help and tutorials.
- Supports a wide variety of export formats, including PDF, PPTX, SVG, PNG and so on.
- Cloud-based software offers you better platform for file storage and sharing.
Comparison of Data Flow Diagram Features
General Rules for Creating Data Flow Diagram
1. Keep it simple; 5-7 processes is a good guide; no more than 7 - 9 processes in each DFD. If a process involves complex sub-process, start a new diagram and connect the 2 diagrams with hyperlink.
2. Number the process. Showing the sequence is useful in identifying the processes when discussing with users.
3. Label the process properly and concisely to increase readability.
4. Data stores should not be connected to an external entity because it would mean that you're giving an external entity direct access to your data files.
5. Data flows should not exist between 2 external entities without going through a process.
6. Loops are not allowed.
7. A process is not an analog of a decision in a systems or programming flowchart. Hence, a dataflow should not be a control signal. Control signals are modeled separately as control flows.