How to Place an Organization Chart on a Slide

To place an organization chart on a slide, the standard method involves using the built-in SmartArt feature available in presentation software like Microsoft PowerPoint.

Inserting an organization chart leverages pre-designed graphic layouts that make it easy to visualize hierarchical structures and add or remove reporting relationships as needed. This feature streamlines the process compared to drawing the chart manually.

Steps to Insert an Organization Chart Using SmartArt

Placing an organization chart onto your slide is a straightforward process using the SmartArt tool. Follow these steps, directly referencing the common method:

1. Navigate to the Insert Tab: Begin by clicking on the Insert tab in the ribbon at the top of your software window. This tab contains various options for adding elements to your slide.
2. Find the Illustrations Group: Within the Insert tab, locate the Illustrations group. This group typically contains options like Pictures, Shapes, Icons, and SmartArt.
3. Click SmartArt: Click on the SmartArt button. This action opens the "Choose a SmartArt Graphic" gallery, which displays various categories of SmartArt graphics.
4. Select the Hierarchy Category: In the "Choose a SmartArt Graphic" gallery, look at the categories listed on the left pane. Click on the Hierarchy category. This category is specifically designed for visualizing organizational structures, decision trees, and similar layouts.
5. Choose an Organization Chart Layout: After selecting Hierarchy, you will see different layout options appear in the center pane. Click on an organization chart layout that suits your needs. A common layout is simply named Organization Chart. Previewing the layouts will show you how the structure is represented.
6. Confirm Your Choice: Once you have selected your preferred organization chart layout, click OK. The chosen organization chart graphic will then be inserted directly onto your active slide, ready for you to add your organizational data.

Customizing Your Organization Chart

Once the basic chart is on your slide, you can easily:

• Add/Remove Shapes: Use the text pane or the SmartArt Design tab to add shapes for new positions or remove existing ones.
• Enter Text: Click inside each shape to type the name and title of the individual or role.
• Change Layout/Colors: Use the SmartArt Design and Format tabs to modify the chart's appearance, including colors, styles, and even switching to a different layout within the Hierarchy category.

Using the SmartArt feature is the most efficient way to place a structured organization chart on a slide, ensuring a clean and professional look.