Radial Diagram

What is a Radial Diagram?

A radial diagram consists of a central block (node or element) surrounded by satellite blocks. These are connected by connectors (arrows by default), illustrating the flow or relationship from the center outwards (or vice versa). This type of diagram is useful for showing how various components relate to a core concept, principle, or process.

Uses of Radial Diagrams

Radial diagrams are versatile and can be used in various contexts, including:

• Business and marketing to showcase the core values and their extensions.
• Education to explain the main topic and its supporting details.
• Technology to illustrate system architecture with a core processing unit.

Creating a Radial Diagram in Software Ideas Modeler

Step 1: Starting a New Diagram

• Navigate to the Ribbon.
• Click on the Project tab.
• Select Add New Diagram. This opens the New Diagram dialog.

Step 2: Selecting Diagram Type

• In the New Diagram dialog, look at the left list and find the Infographics group.
• In the right list, choose Radial Diagram.
• Below, in the Name text box, enter a name for your diagram.
• Confirm with the OK button.

Step 3: Editing the Diagram

• Initially, the diagram starts with one central block and four peripheral elements.
• To edit a block (either the central or peripheral ones), click on the block and enter a new name directly.
• You can also select the container (parent element of all the blocks) and press F2 or use the context menu to select Rename. This opens an edit box where you can change the names. Each line in the editor represents one block, with the central block listed first.

Step 4: Adding New Blocks

• To add new blocks to your diagram, select the container (the entire grouping of blocks).
• Look for the Add Block button in the context bar (usually found below the selected element) and click it. This adds a new peripheral element to your radial diagram.

Step 5: Customizing Your Diagram

• Continue to customize your diagram by adding or renaming blocks as needed.
• You can also adjust the layout, colors, and styles using the tools available in Software Ideas Modeler to make your diagram visually appealing and informative.

Example Diagram

In the example radial diagram for renewable energy, the central block is labeled "Renewable Energy," representing the core subject around which the entire diagram revolves. Surrounding this central block, there are five peripheral elements, each connected to the center by arrows, illustrating the flow of concepts or influence from the central idea to its various components. These peripheral blocks are labeled "Solar Power," "Wind Energy," "Hydroelectric Power," "Geothermal Energy," and "Biomass Energy," signifying different forms of renewable energy sources. Each block is directly linked to the "Renewable Energy" block at the center, emphasizing their role as integral parts of the renewable energy spectrum.

Renewable Energy (Radial Diagram)