SmartDraw can import data from a database file and automatically create charts and other info graphics. And there’s no option for enlarging the size. However, the popup and hover menu items are extremely small and hard to read, regardless of your screen size.

SmartDraw includes templates for pretty much any graphic you might ever need. However, you will need to export to Microsoft PowerPoint to run the presentation. The option to make a presentation also opens a storyboard, in which you can plan out your slideshow. When you document a process, hold a meeting, or manage a project, SmartDraw will open a storyboard page and the typical items you need to create that type of project-process bubbles and arrows, for example-that you can drag and drop into position, or add using buttons. Choosing to create a visual will allow you to choose from any of the many SmartDraw templates-from charts to seating plans to maps to SWOT analysis-which can be a little overwhelming. When you run SmartDraw 2013, the program offers you five very different options: Create a visual, document a process, hold a meeting, manage a project, or make a presentation.

$300 SmartDraw 2013 aims to make visualization of data easy, even for users without a graphic design or drawing background. Whether you need an Edward Tufte-type infographic, complex flowchart, or seating plan, the success of your graphics is often tied directly to your software. A picture is worth a thousand words, or so the adage goes.

Smartdraw trial