We have access to more information now than at any other time in history, and it’s coming to us in a near-constant stream at unparalleled speed. So, to absorb information effectively, it needs to be organized. Enter: The diagram.

Lucidchart’s diagramming software simplifies organizing, especially when built with Smart Containers. Smart Containers allow actionable insights to emerge naturally, and they help you save time when creating a document by automatically formatting the doc for you. Rearranging data is as simple as dragging and dropping from Container to Container (try doing that in a spreadsheet without ruining everything).

In this post, we’ll go over some of tips from our “Building Smarter Diagrams” course in Lucid Training Labs. But this is just a sneak peek—register for the course and gain full access to all its content, from tutorials to activities.

Create a task board

Some projects seem full of endless emails and last-minute asks. It can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be if you use Lucidchart. Smart Containers will help you review the workload of the entire project, track progress and prioritization, and act as a source of truth throughout the project so people know where to look for important information.

Here’s how:

1. Add the Smart Container shape to the toolbar for easier access, then drag and drop the Smart Containers onto the canvas.

2. Double-click on each Container to add tasks and consider categorization.

3. Decide what information you want to be displayed on each tile, such as priority level or status.

Increase efficiency with data-linking

Already have a spreadsheet tracking your info? Make it easily understandable by anyone. Import that information into Smart Containers to simplify and clarify anything, from sales progress to development roadmaps to a new hire pipeline. 

Here’s how:

• Click the “Import data” button under the Smart Container shape.

• Decide how you want to design and categorize the data.

• Import. Make any changes and design the visuals you want to show your team.

Hooked on smarter Lucidchart diagrams? Sign up for the course to access the rest of the content. You’ll  learn how to maximize the intelligence of your diagramming software and access practice modules to become an expert.