Best Software for Org Charts: Streamline Your Company's Hierarchy

Organizational charts, or org charts for short, are visual representations of a company's structure, hierarchy, and relationships between employees. They help to communicate the chain of command, roles and responsibilities, and the reporting structure within an organization. Org charts are essential tools for businesses of all sizes, as they help to streamline communication, improve decision-making, and enhance overall productivity.

Choosing the right org chart software can be daunting, as there are many options available in the market. Some of the factors to consider when selecting the best software include ease of use, customization options, integration with other tools, collaboration features, and pricing. In this article, we will explore some of the best org chart software options available in 2023, based on expert reviews and customer feedback. Whether you're a small business owner or a large enterprise, there's an org chart software that can meet your needs and help you visualize your company's structure.

Understanding Org Charts

An org chart, also known as an organizational chart, is a visual representation of an organization's structure. It shows the hierarchy of positions and departments within the company. Org charts are used to help individuals understand their role in the organization and how their role fits into the larger structure.

Organizational Structure

An organizational structure is the framework that defines how an organization operates. It outlines the roles, responsibilities, and relationships between different positions and departments. There are several types of organizational structures, including hierarchical, flat, matrix, and divisional.

Types of Org Charts

There are different types of org charts that organizations use to represent their structure. The most common types include hierarchical, flat, matrix, and divisional org charts.

Hierarchical Org Chart: This is the most common type of org chart. It shows the organization's structure in a top-down manner, with the CEO or president at the top and lower-level employees at the bottom.

Flat Organizational Chart: This type of org chart is used in organizations with a decentralized structure. It shows a more collaborative approach to decision-making and emphasizes teamwork.

Matrix Organizational Chart: This type of org chart shows the structure of an organization where employees have dual reporting relationships. It's often used in project-based organizations.

Divisional Org Chart: This type of org chart shows the structure of an organization that is divided into different divisions or departments based on products, services, or geography.

Benefits of Org Charts

Org charts provide several benefits to organizations, including:

Improved Communication: Org charts help individuals understand their role in the organization and how their role fits into the larger structure. This understanding can lead to improved communication and collaboration between different departments.

Better Resource Allocation: An accurate org chart can help leaders make more informed decisions about where to allocate resources, such as budgets and personnel.

Clearer Decision-Making: Org charts provide a clear picture of the organization's structure, which can help leaders make better decisions.

Conclusion

Org charts are an important tool for organizations to use to help individuals understand their role in the organization and how their role fits into the larger structure. By understanding the different types of org charts and the benefits they provide, organizations can improve communication, resource allocation, and decision-making.

Why Use Software for Org Charts

Organizational charts, also known as org charts, are visual representations of a company's structure. They show the hierarchy of positions and how they relate to one another. Traditionally, org charts were created using pen and paper or with basic drawing software. However, with the advancements in technology, org chart software has become a popular tool for creating and maintaining org charts.

Using software for org charts has many benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should consider using org chart software:

Efficiency and Productivity

Creating an org chart manually can be time-consuming and tedious. With org chart software, you can create a professional-looking org chart in a matter of minutes. This allows you to focus on other important tasks and be more productive. Additionally, if you need to make changes to the org chart, it is much easier to do so using software than manually.

Transparency and Collaboration

Org charts help to create transparency within a company. They show employees who they report to and who their colleagues are. This can help to improve communication and collaboration between departments. With org chart software, you can easily share the org chart with your team, making it easier for everyone to understand the company's structure.

Planning and Reporting

Org charts can be used for planning and reporting purposes. For example, if you are planning a project, you can use the org chart to see who is responsible for each task. Additionally, if you need to report on the company's structure, an org chart can be a useful tool. Org chart software can also generate reports on the company's structure, making it easier to analyze and understand.

Automation

Org chart software can automate many tasks, such as updating the org chart when an employee is promoted or leaves the company. This saves time and ensures that the org chart is always up-to-date. Additionally, some org chart software can integrate with other software, such as HR software, making it even easier to maintain the org chart.

In summary, using org chart software can improve efficiency, productivity, transparency, collaboration, planning, reporting, and automation within a company. It is a useful tool for creating and maintaining org charts, and can save time and improve communication between departments.

Key Features to Look for in Org Chart Software

When choosing org chart software, there are several key features to consider to ensure that it meets your needs. Here are some of the most important features to look for:

Templates

One of the most important features to look for in org chart software is the availability of templates. Templates can help you quickly create an org chart without having to start from scratch. Look for software that offers a variety of templates to choose from, including templates for different industries and company sizes.

Map and Image Integration

Map and image integration is another important feature to look for in org chart software. This feature allows you to import images and maps into your org chart, making it easier to visualize the structure of your organization.

Basic and Pro Versions

Some org chart software comes in both basic and pro versions. The basic version may be free or low-cost and offer limited features, while the pro version may offer more advanced features for a higher cost. Consider your budget and the features you need when deciding which version to choose.

Functions

Look for org chart software that offers a wide range of functions, such as the ability to add notes, comments, and attachments to your org chart. This can help you keep track of important information about each employee and make it easier to collaborate with others.

Integration

Integration with other software is another important feature to consider. Look for org chart software that can integrate with other tools you use, such as HR software or project management software.

Customization Options

Customization options are also important when choosing org chart software. Look for software that allows you to customize the colors, fonts, and shapes used in your org chart. This can help you create a chart that matches your company's branding and style.

Drag and Drop

Drag and drop functionality can make it easier to create and edit your org chart. Look for software that allows you to drag and drop employees and positions to quickly rearrange your chart.

Customizable Shapes

Customizable shapes are another feature to consider. Look for software that allows you to customize the shapes used in your org chart, such as adding images or logos to represent different departments or positions.

Access Control Mechanism

Access control mechanism is important if you want to restrict access to your org chart to certain employees or groups. Look for software that allows you to set permissions and control who can view or edit your org chart.

Real-time Updates

Finally, real-time updates can help you keep your org chart up-to-date. Look for software that allows you to make changes to your org chart in real-time, so that everyone can see the latest version.

Best Org Chart Software

When it comes to creating organizational charts, having the right software can make all the difference. There are many options available, each with its own unique features and benefits. After researching and testing various options, we have compiled a list of the best org chart software currently available.

Lucidchart

Lucidchart is a popular choice for creating org charts. Its simple user interface makes it easy to create professional-looking charts quickly. Users can choose from a variety of templates or create their own from scratch. Lucidchart also allows users to import data from CSV files, making it easy to populate charts with existing data.

Microsoft Visio

Microsoft Visio is a powerful tool for creating org charts and other types of diagrams. It offers a wide range of features, including the ability to link charts to data sources and create custom templates. Visio also integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft products, such as Excel and PowerPoint.

Creately

Creately is a cloud-based diagramming tool that offers a variety of templates for creating org charts and other types of diagrams. Its drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to add shapes and customize charts to fit your needs. Creately also offers collaboration features, allowing multiple users to work on the same chart simultaneously.

ChartHop

ChartHop is a newer player in the org chart software market, but it has quickly gained popularity due to its innovative features. It uses AI to automatically create org charts based on data from various sources, such as HR systems and spreadsheets. ChartHop also allows users to create custom views and filters, making it easy to visualize data in different ways.

Organimi

Organimi is a cloud-based org chart software that offers a variety of templates and customization options. It allows users to import data from various sources, such as Excel and Google Sheets, and offers collaboration features for team members to work on the same chart. Organimi also offers a mobile app, making it easy to access org charts on the go.

Pingboard

Pingboard is a modern org chart software that offers a variety of features, such as employee profiles and onboarding tools. Its drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to create and customize org charts, and it also offers integration with other HR tools, such as Slack and Google Calendar.

Canva

Canva is a popular design tool that also offers templates for creating org charts. While it may not have all the features of dedicated org chart software, it is a great option for creating simple, visually appealing charts quickly and easily.

Gliffy

Gliffy is a cloud-based diagramming tool that offers a variety of templates, including org charts. Its drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to create and customize charts, and it also offers collaboration features for team members to work on the same chart simultaneously.

Freshteam

Freshteam is an HR software that also offers org chart functionality. Its drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to create and customize charts, and it also offers features such as employee profiles and onboarding tools. Freshteam also integrates with other HR tools, such as BambooHR and Slack.

Overall, there are many great options for org chart software, each with its own unique features and benefits. The best option for your organization will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Software for Different Types of Organizations

When it comes to choosing the best org chart software for your organization, it's important to consider the size and complexity of your organization. Here are some software options that are suitable for different types of organizations:

Small Teams and Departments

For small teams and departments, a simple and easy-to-use org chart software is ideal. ClickUp and Organimi are both great options for creating basic org charts. ClickUp offers a user-friendly interface and a range of customization options, while Organimi has a drag-and-drop editor and allows for easy collaboration with team members.

Small to Medium-Sized Businesses

For small to medium-sized businesses, a more robust org chart software is necessary. Microsoft Visio and Lucidchart are both popular options that offer a range of features and customization options. Microsoft Visio is particularly useful for businesses that use other Microsoft products, while Lucidchart offers integrations with a range of other software tools.

Large Enterprises and Industries

For large enterprises and industries, an org chart software that can handle complex hierarchies and large amounts of data is essential. ChartHop and Pingboard are both popular options that offer advanced features such as real-time updates, automated org chart generation, and custom reporting. ChartHop also offers integrations with a range of HR software tools, while Pingboard has a range of employee directory features.

Manufacturing and Production Companies

For manufacturing and production companies, an org chart software that can handle complex production workflows is necessary. ClosePlan by People.ai is a popular option that offers advanced features such as sales planning, opportunity management, and pipeline management. It also offers integrations with a range of other sales software tools.

Overall, the best org chart software for your organization will depend on your specific needs and requirements. Consider the size and complexity of your organization, as well as the features and integrations that are most important to you, when making your decision.

Using Software for HR and Employee Management

HR and employee management software can greatly simplify the process of creating and maintaining org charts. By automating tasks like data entry and organization, these tools can save HR professionals significant amounts of time and effort. In this section, we will explore some of the key features and benefits of using software for HR and employee management.

One of the most important functions of HR software is managing employee data. With the right software, HR professionals can easily track information like job titles, roles and responsibilities, and employee structure. This data can be used to create detailed org charts that accurately reflect the current state of the organization. Additionally, the software can be used to keep track of new hires and their roles within the company.

HR software can also be used for project management and task tracking. By assigning tasks and responsibilities to specific employees, managers can ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals. This can be especially useful for complex projects that involve multiple teams and departments.

In addition to managing employee data, HR software can also be used for recruiting and time-off management. Recruiting tools can help HR professionals find and attract top talent, while time-off management tools can simplify the process of requesting and approving time off.

Finally, HR software can be used to create detailed employee profiles that include information like job history, performance reviews, and training records. This information can be used to make more informed HR decisions and to identify areas where employees may need additional training or support.

Overall, using software for HR and employee management can be a powerful tool for creating and maintaining org charts. By automating tasks and organizing data, these tools can help HR professionals save time and make more informed decisions.

Software Integration with Other Tools

When selecting org chart software, it is important to consider how well it integrates with other tools your organization uses. The ability to integrate with other software can save time and increase efficiency. Here are some common tools that org chart software may integrate with:

Slack

Many org chart software options offer integration with Slack, a popular team communication tool. This integration allows for seamless communication between team members and the ability to share org charts directly in Slack channels.

Calendar

Integration with calendar software, such as Google Calendar or Microsoft Outlook, can be helpful for scheduling and planning. With this integration, employees can easily view the org chart and see who is available for meetings or tasks.

Excel Spreadsheets

Excel spreadsheets are a common tool for organizing and analyzing data. Some org chart software options allow for easy import and export of data to and from Excel spreadsheets. This integration can save time and prevent errors when updating org charts.

CSV Files

CSV files are commonly used for importing and exporting data between different software applications. Org chart software that allows for easy import and export of data to and from CSV files can save time and increase accuracy when updating org charts.

In summary, selecting org chart software that integrates well with other tools your organization uses can save time and increase efficiency. Integration with tools such as Slack, calendar software, Excel spreadsheets, and CSV files can be especially helpful.

Pricing and Customer Support

When it comes to choosing the best org chart software, pricing can be a major factor. Most software options offer multiple pricing plans to choose from, depending on the size of your organization and the features you need.

For example, ClickUp offers a range of pricing plans starting from $5 per user per month for their Basic plan, up to $9 per user per month for their Business plan. Similarly, Lucidchart offers a Basic plan for free, with paid plans starting at $7.95 per user per month for their Pro plan.

It's important to carefully evaluate each pricing plan and determine which one best fits your organization's needs and budget. Some software options may also offer discounts for non-profit organizations or educational institutions.

In addition to pricing, customer support is also an important consideration when choosing an org chart software. Look for software options that offer comprehensive customer support, including phone, email, and chat support, as well as a knowledge base or help center with helpful articles and tutorials.

For example, Creately offers 24/7 customer support via email and chat, as well as a comprehensive help center with video tutorials and user guides. Similarly, Organimi offers phone and email support, as well as a detailed knowledge base with frequently asked questions and troubleshooting tips.

Overall, when choosing the best org chart software for your organization, it's important to carefully evaluate pricing plans and customer support options to ensure you're getting the best value and support for your investment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best org chart software for your business can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. With the information provided in this article, you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget.

Based on our research, some of the best org chart software options for 2023 include Monday.com, ClickUp, and Microsoft Visio. These platforms offer a range of features and integrations that can help streamline your organizational chart creation process.

When selecting an org chart software, it's important to consider factors such as ease of use, customization options, and pricing. Some software options may offer more advanced features, while others may be more user-friendly for beginners.

Ultimately, the best org chart software for your business will depend on your unique needs and preferences. We recommend taking advantage of free trials and demos to test out different software options before making a final decision.

With the right org chart software in place, you can create a clear and concise visual representation of your company's structure and hierarchy, which can help improve communication and productivity across your organization.