Basic formatting in Software Design Diagrams

We all know the importance of design diagrams and data flow diagrams. Wouldn't it be great if these diagrams not only conveyed information effectively but also looked aesthetically pleasing? Fortunately, there are simple techniques to achieve this.

Consistent Size

Make sure that the elements within the diagram maintain consistent dimensions. This applies even when incorporating icons, logos, or similar elements. If achieving identical height and width for all objects is not possible, aim to maintain consistency in at least one dimension throughout the diagram. Most design tools offer features that allow you to input precise dimensions, which not only enhance visual appeal but also maintain uniformity.

Consistent placement

Align and space objects evenly for a visually appealing diagram. Most design tools offer alignment and distribution features, which improve your diagram. Keep objects close to maintain conciseness for wikis and documents.

Utilize the visual clues provided by the tools.

Ensure the diagram flows consistently, either from top to bottom or left to right. In complex diagrams, using opposite directions, like top to bottom and then bottom to top, can confuse viewers. In such cases, think about dividing the diagram into multiple sections for clarity.

Connections

Maintain consistency in your connectors by using the same size, color, and thickness. Additionally, choose an appropriate style for your connectors, as most tools offer a variety of connector types.

If the connectors represent a process, calling out in label helps.

Consistent Font, Color

Maintain uniformity in your diagram's text by using the same font and size throughout. Avoid cluttering the diagram with excessive bold text and varying font sizes. Instead, include such details in accompanying notes where you can label the blocks and provide additional information in a legend. Limit the number of colors used, and consider using standard colors selected from tools like a Color wheel.

When employing color coding or specific object notations, ensure they are clearly identified in the legend, following the same sequence as the diagram's flow. With these straightforward adjustments, the same diagram can achieve a more polished appearance.

Now, with some simple tweaks, the same diagram looks better:

Most of the tools provides a stencil for Azure, AWS eco systems, take advantage of Icon image library to enhance the diagram.

Keep original diagram

When creating diagram images for documentation, it's essential to keep the original diagram source. This allows others to make edits and updates easily. Modifying the diagram source is far more efficient and straightforward than having to recreate the entire diagram just to incorporate a new step.

Tools

Typically, I use Microsoft Visio and PowerPoint for most of my diagram needs, but there are great set of tools such as Excali Draw, Lucid Chart, Draw IO.

I anticipate that soon there will be an AI-based "Beautify" button that takes care of these tasks, and of course, there are already many such tools in use today!