Using SmartArt Graphics In Excel

SmartArt Graphics is a convenient Excel feature that allows excel users to make organisation charts for better data representation or keeping track of who does what in their corporation. When effectively used, it can save users a lot of time and effort in tidying up their data and charts, thereby allowing users to not only explain information clearly but also for their audience to better absorb information with a single glance.

To create organisation charts, users can go under the Insert section and choose Illustrations. This will  reveal the SmartArt option. Selecting that will lead to SmartArt Graphic galleries that users can choose based on their required needs. For example, Hierarchy. Users will then be able to choose the layout of their choice. Editing of text can be made by clicking the boxes in the SmartArt Graphic section, or by copying text from other locations and pasting them in.

Users are also able to add sections (boxes) or delete sections from their organisation chart. To add sections, simply select the existing sections that are closest to the area in which the new section is to be added. Select SmartArt tools once more and choose Design, which enables the Create Graphic group option to be selected. This will enable users to either add or delete sections from their organisation chart.

If pictures are to be included in the organisational chart, repeat the previous steps to access SmartArt Graphics. Select Hierarchy once more and choose Picture Organisation Chart to enable image options. Once done, users will then be able to add images by choosing on the icon for pictures and locating the area in which the file is stored to insert them.

Apart from these functions, users are also able to adjust and make changes to the layout of their organisation chart as well. However, one layout specifically available only in organisation charts would be hanging layouts. To apply hanging layouts to organisation charts, users will have to rely on the Design tab once more. Choosing Create Graphic group will lead back to a layout selection. Users will then be able to select between Standard, Left Hanging, or Right Hanging.

SmartArt Graphics are a good method in displaying data and arranging them for easy viewing purposes. When effectively used, this tool can potentially benefit users in presentations and reports. Fuss free, easily used and functional, SmartArt Graphics is definitely a valuable tool to master.