Visio Plan 2 builds upon the capabilities of Visio Plan 1 with additional features tailored for more complex diagramming needs within organizations. It includes everything from Plan 1, such as a wide array of templates and shapes, integration with Microsoft 365 for seamless collaboration, and support for desktop and web versions.
 
Plan 2 enhances diagram creation with advanced diagramming features like BPMN 2.0, UML, and database modeling, catering to professionals requiring detailed and specialized diagrams. Users benefit from enhanced data connectivity capabilities, enabling them to link diagrams directly to external data sources such as SQL Server and Azure SQL Database. Visio Plan 2 empowers teams to create, share, and collaborate on intricate diagrams effectively, making it an indispensable tool for visualizing and communicating complex information and processes.
 
Features of Visio Plan 2
 
1. Desktop and Web Access
Desktop App: In addition to web access, Visio Plan 2 provides the full desktop application for more advanced diagramming features, offering greater control over design.
Web Access: Like Plan 1, it also allows access through a web browser for users who need to work on the go or collaborate in real-time.
2. Advanced Diagramming Tools
Plan 2 includes more sophisticated shapes, templates, and tools for creating complex diagrams, such as network diagrams, floor plans, and engineering designs.
Data-Linked Diagrams: The ability to link diagrams to external data sources (like Excel, SQL Server, or SharePoint), and visualize that data dynamically within the diagrams.
3. Additional Templates and Shapes
Plan 2 offers a broader range of templates and shapes for specialized diagrams, including engineering, software, and process flow diagrams, among others.
4. Data Visualization and Analysis
Shape Data and Data Linking: You can link shapes to external data sources (Excel, databases, etc.) and visualize that data on your diagram in real-time, which is useful for creating diagrams that reflect the status of external information (e.g., project management, inventory).
Data Graphics: You can apply color-coding, icons, and other visuals to your shapes based on data-driven rules.
5. Collaboration and Sharing
Real-Time Collaboration: Collaborate with team members in real-time on the same diagram, similar to Plan 1, but with the added benefit of more powerful tools.
Integration with Microsoft 365: Enhanced integration with Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and other Office tools allows for seamless sharing, collaboration, and embedding of diagrams in other documents.
6. Advanced Workflow Automation
Process Management: Visio Plan 2 allows users to automate and optimize workflows using process diagrams, particularly useful for business process management (BPM) and operational efficiency.
7. Customizable Diagrams
You can create and customize your own shapes, stencils, and templates for more specific needs, offering greater flexibility than Plan 1.
8. Advanced Features for Professionals
Custom Stencils and Templates: Create your own stencils and templates tailored to your specific needs, ideal for businesses with specific diagramming requirements.
Integration with Azure: You can import and visualize Azure diagrams directly, making it useful for IT and network professionals.
Visio for the Web API: Provides the ability to integrate Visio into your own workflows or third-party apps using API access.
9. Enterprise-Level Features
Security Features: Enhanced security and compliance features suitable for enterprise environments.
Enterprise Diagramming and Support: Plan 2 is designed for larger teams and organizations with complex diagramming needs, including extended support.
10. Support for Large-Scale Projects
The desktop version supports larger, more complex projects with greater customization options, suitable for industries like engineering, architecture, and IT where detailed diagrams are essential.
11. Visio Shapes and Stencils for Specific Industries
Plan 2 includes access to industry-specific shapes and stencils (e.g., electrical engineering, architecture, network diagrams), which are critical for professionals working in specialized fields.