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What is Microsoft Visio and how to get it
3 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Microsoft Visio is a diagramming and vector graphics application, part of theOffice 365family. It includes an online, web-based version, as well as APIs dedicated to developers. Visio can be used with the latest version of the most popular browsers
The app was launched in 1992 by Shapeware Corporation. Then, in 2000 it was acquired by Microsoft, which further improved it and added Visio Online, which allowed users to access the app from any of the supported browsers.
What is Microsoft Visio used for?
Visio is the ideal app for those who love working with diagrams,mind maps,or similar visuals and get their ideas together in a comprehensive graphic to ease their work.
The program includes a variety of network and flowchart templates, shapes, and connector tools.
Of course, the program is integrated with other Microsoft apps, includingSharePoint. This makes it extremely easy to use Visio with your team and collaborate on various workflows, projects, and flowcharts.
For developers, Visio also includes JavaScript APIs, which allow access to embedded Visio Online diagrams in a SharePoint Online page. So developers can interact with Visio diagram elements, write custom handlers for mouse events, create visual mark-ups on the diagram canvas, and more.
How can I install and use Visio?
Currently, Visio comes in two plans; one of them is rather web-oriented, while the other includes desktop capabilities.
Key features of Visio Plan 1:
Visio Plan 1
As you can imagine, Plan 1 is perfect for personal use, for both educational and professional purposes. Since it is available for use on a single device, if you need multiple use, you can get Visio Plan 2.
Key features of Visio Plan 2:
Visio Plan 2
You directly accessVisio web versionby signing in with a work or school account. It doesn’t require installation, since it’s web-based.
However, your browser needs to be updated. Edge is a reliable Visio viewer tool, but so are IE 11, Chrome, Mozilla, or Safari 10+.
On the other hand, you can also use Visio for free. That is, the web version offers a limited access to basic Visio, in which you can only view files. You need a Microsoft account, though.
If you already have some experience with Visio, share it with us in the comments section.
Radu Tyrsina
Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time).
For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web.
Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they’re looking for.
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Radu Tyrsina
