Microsoft distributes some really nice looking Azure architecture diagrams / blueprints (like the one on the right) in various materials and even includes them in keynotes, presentations and other places. These really seem like they must be created with Photoshop by a graphic designer. However, this is not the case.

These architecture diagrams are created using Visio! If you have Visio, you too can get your hands on the various assets necessary to create your own awesome architecture diagrams like these!

The assets used to create these diagrams are:

1. Visio 3D Blueprint Template
2. Cloud and Enterprise Symbol / Icon set

Visio 3D Blueprint Template

The Visio 3D Blueprint Template contains some Visio templates that can be used as the basis for the Azure Architecture Blueprint style diagrams.

Cloud and Enterprise Symbol / Icon set

The Cloud and Enterprise Symbol / Icon set is a Free set of Visio Symbols and Icons that can be used within any Visio diagram. These symbols / icons can really help to create much nicer looking architectural diagrams. You can use them to have fun with internal project diagrams, or use them for diagrams you create for clients to give them some extra polish.

These tools make some great additions to any Azure Architects toolset. Go download the tools now and start creating the best looking architectural diagrams you’ve ever created!

About the Author

Chris Pietschmann

Chris Pietschmann is a Microsoft MVP, HashiCorp Ambassador, and Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT) with 20+ years of experience designing and building Cloud & Enterprise systems. He has worked with companies of all sizes from startups to large enterprises. He has a passion for technology and sharing what he learns with others to help enable them to learn faster and be more productive.