Diagrams.net vs OmniGraffle

July 25, 2023 | Author: Adam Levine
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Diagrams.net
Diagrams.net (former Draw.io) is a free online diagram drawing application for workflow, BPM, org charts, UML, ER, network diagrams. It provides its user fast, easy and free way to create simple diagrams without the need to install anything on their computer.
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OmniGraffle
OmniGraffle can help you make eye-popping graphic documents—quickly—by providing powerful styling tools, keeping lines connected to shapes even when they’re moved, and magically organizing diagrams with just one click. Create flow charts, diagrams, UI and UX interactions, and more. Whether you need a quick sketch or an epic technical figure, OmniGraffle and OmniGraffle Pro keep it gorgeously understandable.
Diagrams.net and OmniGraffle are two diagramming tools that serve distinct user needs and preferences. Diagrams.net, previously known as Draw.io, is an open-source platform offering a free and collaborative diagramming experience with a wide range of templates and integrations. It excels in providing a cost-effective solution for users who require flexibility and ease of use in creating diagrams for various projects. On the other hand, OmniGraffle is a proprietary software designed specifically for macOS and iOS users, providing a polished and professional diagramming experience. It offers advanced features, rich customization options, and a beautiful interface, making it an excellent choice for individuals and professionals who require sophisticated diagramming capabilities and are invested in the Apple ecosystem.

See also: Top 10 Diagramming software
Diagrams.net vs OmniGraffle in our news:

2020. Draw.io's open source diagramming is moving to diagrams.net



The widely used open-source diagramming web application, Draw.io, is undergoing a domain name transition, shifting away from its well-known .io domain to Diagrams.net. This change is motivated by the need to enhance security and uphold ethical practices. The decision to migrate stems from a security issue associated with .io top-level domains, compounded by a lack of communication from the domain administrator in addressing the matter. The absence of communication has eroded the trust of the diagrams.net development team in the .io TLD administrator. The transition process from Draw.io to diagrams.net will be gradual and extend throughout the entire year of 2020. During this transition period, the Draw.io domain will continue to host the diagramming web application without any redirections until the migration is fully completed.


2018. draw.io allows to automatically create diagrams from CSV files



Various departments and professionals within companies often deal with data presented in tables or spreadsheets, and converting that data into diagrams can enhance comprehension. Importing data into draw.io for visual representation is now a straightforward process. In this format, each row corresponds to a shape, while the columns contain the respective data for those shapes. It is important to note that not all columns are used as data within the diagram; some serve as instructions for shape formatting or act as identifiers for drawing connectors between shapes. Additionally, draw.io allows you to customize the formatting of the shapes according to your preferences.


2018. OmniGraffle for Mac gets the new Stencil Browser experience



In the latest update of OmniGraffle 7.6 for Mac, you have more flexibility in positioning the Stencil Browser. You can now choose to have it in the left or right sidebar, or stick with the familiar views: popover and detached window. A convenient feature allows you to easily add new objects to any stencil by simply dragging them from the Canvas to the Stencil Browser. (Remember to hold the Option key while dragging.) Furthermore, you can select and use multiple stencils simultaneously, making it effortless to rearrange or reorganize them using Folders. These are just a few of the enhancements you can expect in the new version of OmniGraffle for Mac.


2017. draw.io is now available as a Trello Power-Up



Now, keeping related draw.io diagrams alongside Trello tasks has become significantly easier. Instead of relying on shared folders, cloud file services, or cumbersome email exchanges, you can now embed one or multiple diagrams directly into any Trello card. This seamless integration allows for more efficient collaboration with your team. With draw.io, you have the flexibility to create various types of diagrams, including flowcharts, BPMN diagrams, mockups, wireframes, UML and ER diagrams, floor plans, electrical circuits, infographics, and more. The platform offers an extensive shape library, robust tools for importing diagrams in different formats, and securely stores all data within Trello.


2017. OmniGraffle 7.5 gets big automation update



In the latest version of OmniGraffle 7.5 for Mac, a range of new automation features have been introduced, accompanied by significant enhancements to various functions and classes, along with the successful elimination of numerous bugs. For a comprehensive understanding of all the changes, you can refer to the release notes. This update is particularly significant for those who have been actively utilizing Omni Automation within OmniGraffle. With the enhanced automation capabilities, you are encouraged to share your scripts and explore the quick workspace improvements that Omni Automation brings to OmniGraffle.


2017. OmniGraffle gains drag and drop for iOS 11



The iOS 11 update brings exciting enhancements to OmniGraffle 3.2, the versatile drawing and charting software, by leveraging the new drag and drop capabilities of the operating system. This integration revolutionizes the way you interact with the app, enhancing your workflow and productivity. OmniGraffle is widely recognized for creating organization charts and floor plans, allowing users to design intricate and precise diagrams. With its robust features, app designers can even use OmniGraffle to visually conceptualize their software interfaces. Moreover, OmniGraffle is designed for quick and efficient explanations, offering a range of tools and features that facilitate rapid drawing. Its devoted community of users greatly appreciates the platform, often sharing and selling curated collections of templates known as Stencils.


2017. OmniGraffle brings its Mac-features to iOS



OmniGraffle has recently unveiled a new version of its iOS app, which incorporates a paneled design reminiscent of the Mac version. This update aims to provide a familiar experience for users who are already accustomed to the Mac version. The navigation and object inspection functionalities are now managed through these new panels. When using an iPad or a Plus-sized iPhone in landscape mode, the panels smoothly slide in from the sides of the screen. Conversely, on smaller iPhones or when using a Plus-sized iPhone in portrait mode, the panels elegantly slide up from the bottom of the screen. Furthermore, the iOS version of the app now aligns its core functionality with the macOS version, including the inclusion of features like artboards. One advantage of OmniGraffle being Universal is that it allows for convenient quick edits on your iPhone if that's the only device available. However, for the optimal experience, it is recommended to utilize OmniGraffle on the largest iPad screen within your means.


2017. OmniGraffle adds Artboards to presentation mode



OmniGraffle 7.3 introduced a new feature called Presentation Mode, which enables users to showcase their artboards in a visually appealing manner. Previously, Presentation Mode allowed users to treat each canvas as a slide for a full-screen display. With the latest update, users can now present individual artboards as well. This feature allows designers to isolate their specific designs from the busy canvas, displaying only the content within each artboard's boundaries and above it in the layer hierarchy. To initiate a presentation, you can access the corresponding option in the View menu. During the presentation, you can navigate between canvases using the up and down arrow keys, while the left and right arrow keys allow you to switch between artboards. To streamline navigation, the sidebar has been simplified to minimize accidental clicks. Simply move the cursor all the way to the left for easier access.


2016. OmniGraffle 7 plays better with other graphics apps



OmniGraffle, the vector drawing and diagramming tool for Mac, has received a significant update. In its latest version 7, OmniGraffle introduces a highly flexible canvas that can expand infinitely. Unlike other graphics applications that require users to select a predefined size when starting a new document, OmniGraffle 7 eliminates the guesswork by accommodating diverse needs. Furthermore, OmniGraffle 7 integrates seamlessly with other graphics apps, enhancing its compatibility. While the previous version allowed for exporting work as SVG files, the new update introduces the ability to import SVG graphics. This opens up new possibilities for incorporating OmniGraffle into a wider range of workflows. Additionally, professional users can leverage the power of artboards in OmniGraffle 7. By utilizing the Artboard tool, you can effortlessly draw shapes around objects on the canvas, similar to how you would create shapes with the shapes tool.


2015. OmniGraffle released universal iOS app



The Omni Group has launched a universal application, OmniGraffle 2 iOS app, which can now run on Apple's iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch devices. Additionally, they have incorporated new language support for Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Simplified Chinese, and Spanish. The new OmniGraffle 2 iOS App includes an optional professional upgrade, available as an in-app purchase for $49, which enables support for the recently introduced Fill Effects and Filters in OmniGraffle 6.1 for Mac. With the OmniGraffle 2 Pro upgrade, users gain access to Fill Blend and Filter effects, allowing them to blur, pixelate, and magnify content behind a shape. Furthermore, the latest update of the iOS app brings an updated Layout specifically adapted for smaller iPhone and iPod touch screens.

Author: Adam Levine
Adam is an expert in project management, collaboration and productivity technologies, team management, and motivation. With an extensive background working at prestigious companies such as Microsoft and Accenture, Adam's in-depth knowledge and experience in the field make him a sought-after professional. Currently, he has ventured into entrepreneurship, owning a thriving consulting and training agency where he imparts invaluable insights and practical strategies to individuals and organizations, empowering them to achieve their goals and maximize their potential. You can contact Adam via email adam@liventerprise.com