What is Microsoft Visio?

Download and install Microsoft Visio is a special piece of software that lets you create lots of different diagrams. You can make flowcharts, organizational charts, floor plans, data flow diagrams, process flow diagrams, business process modeling, swimlane diagrams, 3D maps, and more. 

It’s a Microsoft product that is sold as an addition to MS Office. The latest version (Visio 2016) comes in three editions: Visio Standard ($299.99), Visio Professional ($589.99), and Visio Pro for Office 365 ($13 per month or $15.50 per month).

Visio versions through the years

Visio has changed a lot over the years. Visio has come a long way since its first version, which came out in 1999 and was labeled v 1.0 to 5.0. The program had up to three editions – each with its own set of features.

• Microsoft purchased Visio in 2000 and began the process of merging different versions and editions.
• Visio 2000 (6.0)
• Visio 2002 (Version 10.0) is a direct follow-up to Office 2003, which skipped versions 7.0 through 9.0.
• Visio for Enterprise Architects 2003 (VEA 2003)
• Office Visio 2003
• Office Visio VEA 2005
• Microsoft Office Visio 2007 (v12.0; Standard, Professional)
• Visio 2010 (Standard, Professional, Premium) – Version 13.0 was skipped.
• Visio 2013 (Standard, Professional)
• Visio is not available on Mac.

Visio is an app that helps you create and share professional diagrams, like flowcharts and network maps.

How Visio started

Visio originally began life in the 1990s as a Shapewear Corp. product called Visio 1.0, which was released in 1992. The software quickly gained recognition and success, so in 1995 its name was changed to Visio Corp. 

In 2000, Microsoft acquired Visio Corp. and rebranded it as part of the MS Office family. To this day, despite being owned by Microsoft, Visio is still a stand-alone purchase that can be used without the need for any other pieces of the MS Office suite.

Pros and Cons of Microsoft Visio

PROS

• We offer a variety of different diagramming shapes to choose from.
• It’s the most trusted name in diagramming software.
• Downloadable and compatible with your device.
• We offer a Cloud-based solution

CONS

• You might be able to find it expensive
• You might be able to find it expensive

How to Install Visio

1. To open this file, select Open (in Edge or Internet Explorer), Setup (in Chrome), or Save File (in Firefox).

2. If you see the User Account Control prompt that asks, Would you like to allow this application to make changes to your device?, select Yes.

3. Installation has begun.

When the installation has been completed, you’ll see a notification saying, “You’re all set! Visio is installed now,” and an animation will show you where to find the app on your computer.

FAQs