You can choose any template under the Software Design category under New Document on the dashboard.
SmartDraw has templates for data flow diagrams, ER diagrams, wireframing, and a variety of UML diagrams including activity diagrams, class diagrams, and more.
Choosing the right template will ensure that the relevant symbol library for that type of software diagram is docked to the left of your work area along with any relevant tools to help you create that type of diagram.
Here's a sample from different types of software diagrams.
Once you have the right template and right symbols, you can start building your diagram.
Add and Connect Symbols
You can drag and drop a symbol from the library to your work area.
You can then connect these symbols with a line.
In fact, once you already have a symbol on your diagram, you can add new ones by drawing lines. First, click on any of the yellow dots or Quick Action Controls at the perimeter of a shape and start drawing a line. At the end of the line, you'll see a pop-up menu of symbols. Select one to add to your diagram and automatically connected to the previous shape.
This menu is pre-populated with the most common symbols for the selected diagram type. The options will change over time to symbols you use, so you'll always have what you need at your fingertips.
Define Arrowheads
For some diagram types, you may need a specialized arrowhead time to indicate one to many and other technical relationships.
To show the relationship between classes for example in an ER Diagram, select the line and click on Set Arrowheads in the SmartPanel to bring up a dialog of arrowhead options.
You can also add multiplicities from the SmartPanel. Select a line and click Add Multiplicities. This will drop two placeholder text objects on either end of the selected line you can edit.
Read the full tutorial on generating an ERD diagram from data.
Related software diagram tutorial: