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In this guide, we’re looking at the best open-source org chart software available today.
An organizational chart is an essential tool for any company. With an org chart in place, you can:
- Get a clear picture of your company’s structure
- Improve your hiring processes
- Build stronger teams
Org chart software can come in all shapes and sizes. One exciting type you might want to try out is open-source software.
Open-source software means that the product is available to the public. Anyone can use it — and anyone can modify the software however they want. The most obvious benefit of open-source software is that it’s free. But beyond that, having access to the source code lets companies customize the product to suit their needs.
In this guide, we’re looking at the best open-source org chart software available today.
1. Visual Understanding Environment
Visual Understanding Environment (VUE) is a free, open-source tool written in Java. VUE was developed by the Academic Technology group at Tufts University to help users create simple diagrams, such as org charts.
Key features:
VUE’s interface is as stripped-down as it can be, featuring only the essential tools needed to create a basic diagram. This makes VUE easy to understand and use, though it does limit how detailed or stylish a chart can be.
- VUE’s navigation and editing functionalities are remarkably intuitive.
- After building an org chart with VUE, users can share it using various image formats or as a PDF file.
- Users can merge multiple existing diagrams into a single chart.
- VUE works on Windows, Mac and Linux.
- Users can import RSS and CSV files.
- Users can tag or apply metadata to the nodes and links included in each chart.
2. Dia Diagram Editor
Another great example of open-source org chart software is Dia Diagram Editor, or simply Dia. Dia can be used to create a variety of diagrams, including flowcharts, mind maps and org charts. Dia uses Python.
Key features:
- Dia’s user-friendly interface makes it easy for users to build a basic org chart.
- Dia works with Windows, Mac and Linux.
- Dia features a library of more than 1,000 shapes and symbols that can be used to design custom diagrams.
- Users can import and export diagrams using a variety of formats.
3. Diagrams.net
Diagrams.net (formerly draw.io) is a free online open-source diagramming tool. Like VUE and Dia, Diagrams.net lets users design every type of diagram, from product roadmaps to org charts. Diagrams.net was developed using HTML5 and JavaScript.
Key features:
- Diagrams.net is known for its ease of use.
- No registration or login is required to use Diagrams.net.
- Diagrams.net allows users to arrange diagrams in layers that can be viewed independently.
- Users can save diagrams locally.
- Diagrams.net allows users to import charts from Lucidchart and Gliffy.
- Diagrams.net features a library of shapes and symbols.
- Users can back up diagrams using Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive and more.
- Diagrams.net can be used without an internet connection.
Is open-source org chart software right for you?
While open-source org chart software can be a great choice for some companies, most companies will want a more robust diagramming tool. That doesn’t mean you have to invest in an expensive org chart maker, though. Plenty of reliable tools are free.
For example, The Org is a free platform that lets users create polished org charts and share them with the world. The Org’s intuitive design makes it easier than ever for companies to enjoy the benefits of a public org chart. You can even sync The Org with your HR management system, applicant tracking system or Slack account to upload employee information. Then, once that information is uploaded to The Org, you can organize it into a stylish org chart.
If you need a little inspiration for your org design, you’re in luck. Because every org chart on The Org is public, you can browse the org charts of companies in every industry. This includes global brands like:
The Org also doubles as a job posting platform. Once you’ve signed up, you can add open positions into your org chart, which will then be advertised on The Org’s public job board. That way, job seekers can see exactly how your company is structured and who they would be working with. Interested candidates can even apply directly through The Org itself.
Best of all, The Org is completely free — with no paid plans or hidden fees.
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