Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

UMLGraph VS Diagram Designer

Compare UMLGraph VS Diagram Designer and see what are their differences

UMLGraph logo UMLGraph

UMLGraph is a professional automated drawing tool that allows the designers the declarative specification and drawing of UML class and sequence diagram.

Diagram Designer logo Diagram Designer

Diagram Designer
  • UMLGraph Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-25
  • Diagram Designer Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-04-20

UMLGraph features and specs

  • Automated Diagrams
    UMLGraph allows for the automatic generation of UML diagrams directly from Java source code, which can save a significant amount of time and reduce the likelihood of errors introduced by manual diagram creation.
  • Integration with Javadoc
    UMLGraph integrates seamlessly with Javadoc, enabling the generation of both class documentation and UML diagrams in a unified process.
  • Text-Based Configuration
    Diagrams are configured using textual annotations in the source code, which makes version control easier and allows developers to maintain diagrams alongside the source code.
  • Extensible and Customizable
    The tool is highly customizable, allowing users to define the appearance and layout of UML diagrams to meet specific project needs.
  • Open Source
    Being an open-source tool, UMLGraph is freely available for use and modification, promoting community involvement and continual improvement.

Possible disadvantages of UMLGraph

  • Learning Curve
    There is a learning curve associated with mastering the use of UMLGraph and its annotations, which may create an initial barrier to entry for new users.
  • Java-Centric
    UMLGraph is designed specifically for Java, which limits its utility for projects that are developed in other programming languages.
  • Limited Dynamic Diagram Support
    The tool primarily focuses on static diagrams and may have limited functionality for generating dynamic diagrams such as sequence or activity diagrams.
  • Dependence on Graphviz
    UMLGraph relies on Graphviz for rendering diagrams, which introduces an additional dependency that must be installed and maintained.
  • Manual Configuration for Complex Diagrams
    For complex diagrams, significant manual configuration may be required, which can negate some of the time-saving benefits.

Diagram Designer features and specs

  • Freeware
    Diagram Designer is available free of charge, making it an economical choice for individuals and small businesses.
  • Lightweight
    The software is lightweight, meaning it requires minimal system resources and can run efficiently on older or less powerful computers.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    Diagram Designer features a straightforward and easy-to-use interface, making it accessible for users with varying levels of technical expertise.
  • Support for Multiple Diagram Types
    It supports a variety of diagram types including flowcharts, UML diagrams, and network diagrams, offering versatility for different needs.
  • Customizable Objects
    Users can create and customize objects to fit their specific diagramming needs, allowing for greater flexibility in design.

Possible disadvantages of Diagram Designer

  • Limited Advanced Features
    Compared to more robust diagramming tools, Diagram Designer lacks some of the advanced features and integrations found in premium software.
  • No Collaboration Tools
    The software does not offer built-in collaboration tools, which can be a drawback for teams needing to work together on diagrams simultaneously.
  • Older User Interface
    The user interface might appear outdated to some users compared to more modern applications, potentially affecting the user experience.
  • Limited Export Options
    Diagram Designer offers limited options for exporting diagrams, which can be an issue if users need to share or present their work in various formats.
  • Lack of Cloud Integration
    The software does not integrate with cloud storage solutions, which can be inconvenient for users who rely on these services for file storage and collaboration.

Analysis of UMLGraph

Overall verdict

  • UMLGraph is generally considered a good tool for generating UML diagrams, especially for those who are comfortable with using Javadoc and prefer a textual approach to diagram specification over a graphical one. It excels in environments where automated documentation is a priority and where integration with Java projects is necessary.

Why this product is good

  • UMLGraph is a tool that allows the declarative specification and drawing of UML class and sequence diagrams. It is highly regarded for its ability to generate diagrams from Java source code using Javadoc comments, which is particularly useful for developers who want to maintain up-to-date documentation within their codebase. Its integration with Javadoc and automated nature makes it efficient for projects that require regular documentation updates.

Recommended for

  • Java developers looking for an integrated solution to generate UML diagrams from source code.
  • Teams that prefer declarative documentation methods and want to keep their diagrams in sync with their codebase.
  • Projects that require frequent updates to documentation as part of their development lifecycle.

Analysis of Diagram Designer

Overall verdict

  • Diagram Designer is a good tool for users needing a straightforward and effective software solution for creating diagrams without the complexity often found in more advanced applications. Its free availability enhances its appeal, particularly for students, educators, and professionals working on tight budgets.

Why this product is good

  • Diagram Designer by Meesoft is appreciated for its simplicity and ease of use. It is lightweight, which makes it quick to install and run even on less powerful computers. The software offers a range of features suitable for creating flowcharts, UML diagrams, illustrations, and other types of visual representations. Users value its intuitive interface and the fact that it doesn't require a steep learning curve. Additionally, Diagram Designer provides vector-based editing and supports basic image manipulations, accommodating several file formats for import and export.

Recommended for

    Diagram Designer is highly recommended for students, small business owners, educational professionals, and anyone else who needs to create visual content such as flowcharts or diagrams without requiring extensive features. It's also suitable for individuals who prioritize simplicity and cost-effectiveness over comprehensive functionality.

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Diagram Designer videos

Diagram Designer Tutorial

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  • Review - 11 Diagram Designer

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to UMLGraph and Diagram Designer)
Diagrams
61 61%
39% 39
Flowcharts
56 56%
44% 44
Tool
100 100%
0% 0
Wireframing
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

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What are some alternatives?

When comparing UMLGraph and Diagram Designer, you can also consider the following products

draw.io - Online diagramming application

yEd - yEd is a free desktop application to quickly create, import, edit, and automatically arrange diagrams. It runs on Windows, Mac OS X, and Unix/Linux.

Dia - Dia is a GTK+ based diagram creation program for GNU/Linux, MacOS X, Unix, and Windows, and is released under the GPL license.

LucidChart - LucidChart is the missing link in online productivity suites. LucidChart allows users to create, collaborate on, and publish attractive flowcharts and other diagrams from a web browser.

OmniGraffle - OmniGraffle is for creating precise graphics like website wireframes, an electrical system designs, or mapping out software class.

CollabNet - ArgoUML, free and safe download. ArgoUML latest version: Open-source diagramming application for personal computers. ArgoUML is a program that allows users to create complex and professional diagrams.