One post tagged with "confluence-apps"

Teams use Confluence to document architecture, processes, and organizational structures. But Confluence doesn't render graphs or charts natively — you need a marketplace app.

We built Graphviz Charts for Confluence to bring the power of Graphviz and DOT language to Confluence pages. In this post, we compare it against every alternative.

The Apps​

Feature Comparison​

draw.io​

What it does: Full diagramming tool embedded in Confluence.

Strengths:

• 100+ diagram types
• Free and open source
• Large template library
• Real-time collaboration

Weaknesses:

• Steep learning curve
• Overkill for simple graphs
• No DOT language support
• Heavy on page load

Best for: Complex diagrams, architecture, wireframes.

Graphviz Charts for Confluence​

What it does: Renders Graphviz DOT language directly in Confluence pages.

Strengths:

• Native DOT language support
• Lightweight, fast rendering
• Auto-layout algorithms (hierarchical, circular, random)
• 12 built-in shapes
• Inline in page content (no iframe)

Weaknesses:

• Requires DOT language knowledge
• No visual editor
• New app (no install history)

Best for: Org charts, dependency graphs, flowcharts, network diagrams — especially if you already use DOT language or want auto-layout.

Mermaid Plus for Confluence​

What it does: Renders Mermaid diagrams (flowcharts, sequence, class, etc.).

Strengths:

• 29 diagram types
• Text-based syntax (like Graphviz)
• Live preview
• One-click templates

Weaknesses:

• Different syntax than Graphviz
• No DOT language support
• Some diagram types require specific Mermaid version

Best for: Flowcharts, sequence diagrams, Gantt charts — if you prefer Mermaid syntax.

Gliffy Diagrams​

What it does: Drag-and-drop diagramming tool.

Strengths:

• Visual editor
• Good template library
• Enterprise features

Weaknesses:

• Paid only (no free tier)
• Slower than text-based tools
• No code-based diagrams

Best for: Teams that prefer visual editing over code.

Lucidchart​

What it does: Cloud-based diagramming with Confluence integration.

Strengths:

• Real-time collaboration
• Extensive template library
• Enterprise security

Weaknesses:

• Expensive
• External tool (not native)
• Requires separate account

Best for: Large enterprises already using Lucidchart.

Head-to-Head: Graphviz Charts vs Alternatives​

Graphviz Charts vs draw.io​

Verdict: Use Graphviz Charts for auto-layout graphs. Use draw.io for complex visual diagrams.

Graphviz Charts vs Mermaid Plus​

Verdict: Use Graphviz Charts for structured graphs with auto-layout. Use Mermaid Plus for general-purpose diagrams.

Use Cases​

Quick Start: Graphviz Charts​

1. Install from Atlassian Marketplace
2. Type /graphviz in any Confluence page
3. Enter DOT language code:

digraph G {
  A -> B -> C;
  B -> D;
}

4. Choose layout algorithm (dot, circo, fdp, random)
5. Save the page — graph renders automatically

Frequently Asked Questions​

Do I need to know DOT language? Yes. Graphviz Charts uses DOT language syntax. If you're new, start with simple graphs and expand.

Can I use a visual editor? No. Graphviz Charts is code-based. For visual editing, use draw.io or Gliffy.

What layout algorithms are available? dot (hierarchical), circo (circular), fdp (force-directed), random.

Can I export diagrams? Yes. Right-click the rendered graph to save as PNG or SVG.

Does it work with Confluence Cloud? Yes. Fully compatible with Confluence Cloud and Data Center.

This comparison is part of our Confluence App Hub. See all comparisons →