Microsoft Corp. is offering database users the chance to shed more light on their most complex deployments and business processes with a new update to Visio Pro, its diagramming application software.

The main update is something called a database reverse engineering tool, which allows system administrators to explore how their databases are structured and how the various elements in them work together. The tool is available through the Visio Add-in for Database Modeling, and supports Microsoft SQL, MySQL and Oracle databases.

The tool provides an “intuitive wizard’ that allows users to simply select the source database and any elements they wish to include in a visual diagram it creates. “In addition to tables and views, you can also incorporate stored procedures and specific table objects, like primary keys, indexes and triggers,” Microsoft’s Visio team wrote in a blog post. “Best of all, the database diagram updates when the source information changes, helping ensure everyone has access to the latest data.”

The tool does all of this without exposing the underlying source data, which helps to protect against any unauthorized access to sensitive information stored in the database. Microsoft said the main benefit of this kind of database modeling is that users will be able to visualize their work in exciting and meaningful ways, boost efficiencies and make informed decisions with confidence.

Alongside the new tool, Microsoft has also enabled access to third-party, industry-specific templates for those with “specialized diagramming needs.” The offerings, many of which come from Canadian business process management company Trisotech Inc., include Business Process Model and Notation for creating diagrams of professional process models, along with Case Management Model and Notation and Decision Model for creating businesses decisions and rules diagrams.

Microsoft has also thrown in a few of its own templates for educators. The company is offering templates along with sample diagrams for specific science, technology, engineering and math subjects, including algebra, chemistry and physics. The templates can be used for extracurricular activities and programs such as gaming, music and sports, the company said.

Photo: Laurentiu Cristofor / Flickr