Introduction to SmartArt Graphics
Applies to: Word 2007
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SmartArt is a new addition to Word 2007 that simplifies the process of creating graphic illustrations of all sorts. When you need to illustrate a process, workflow, a listing, or the way things relate to one another, you can do it quickly-with just a few clicks of the mouse—by using SmartArt.
With SmartArt, you can choose from a huge collection of graphic types, customize them to your heart’s content and include photos or clipart within the structure of some graphic types. You can also apply a variety of design styles to add dimension, shadow, shine and perspective.
Creating a SmartArt diagram
- Place your cursor in the document where you would like to place a diagram
- Select the Insert Tab > Illustrations Group > SmartArt
- A dialogue box appears, enabling you to choose the type of diagram
Types of diagrams to choose from
- List (24 options) = non-sequential series of items
- Process (32 options) = shows a step-by-step process
- Cycle (14 options) = illustrates the workflow of a particular operation
- Hierarchy (7 options) = shows levels, such as org charts
- Relationship (32 options) = demonstrates how various items relate to one another
- Matrix (5 options) = provides a comparison of multiple items
- Pyramid (4 options) = illustrates a relationship typically built from the bottom up
Formatting
You can apply a variety of layouts and styles directly to your SmartArt diagrams.
To change the layout, apply color, styles and more:
- Select the SmartArt diagram
- Select the Design tab on the SmartArt Tools tab
- Go the Layout group and select the down arrow for a gallery of Layouts to display
- Select the layout that best fits what you are trying to describe/illustrate
- Then change the color scheme of the diagram
- Apply 3-D settings, shadows, rotation, glow and more
- Add and Format Diagram Text, Apply Shape Styles, WordArt Styles and more
SmartArt is supported in Word, Excel and Power Point 2007.
