How to Make an Organizational Chart in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

Creating an organizational chart is one of the simplest ways to visualize the structure of your business or team. Whether you want to show who reports to whom, clarify responsibilities, or just keep your hierarchy clear, you can make a professional-looking org chart using Microsoft Word, Excel, or PowerPoint. Here’s how.

1. How to Make an Organizational Chart in Word

Step 1: Open a New Document
Start Word and open a blank document.

Step 2: Insert a SmartArt Graphic
Go to the “Insert” tab, click “SmartArt,” and select “Hierarchy” from the left panel. Choose “Organizational Chart” and click “OK.”

Step 3: Add Text
Click inside the shapes to type names, titles, or departments. To add more boxes, use the “Add Shape” button in the SmartArt Design tab.

Step 4: Customize Your Chart
Change colors or layout styles in the SmartArt Design tab to match your brand or style.

Pro Tip:
Use “Add Assistant” to show someone who supports a manager but isn’t in the direct chain of command.

2. How to Make an Organizational Chart in Excel

Step 1: Open Excel
Start a new worksheet.

Step 2: Insert a SmartArt Graphic
Just like in Word, go to “Insert,” click “SmartArt,” choose “Hierarchy,” and select the organizational chart layout.

Step 3: Fill in Details
Click the shapes to add names and roles. To add levels or positions, use the “Add Shape” option.

Step 4: Adjust and Format
Drag boxes to rearrange your structure. Use the “Format” options to change colors, fonts, or borders.

Why Excel?
Excel makes it easy to align, resize, or organize multiple charts and lets you tie in other data or metrics.

3. How to Make an Organizational Chart in PowerPoint

Step 1: Open a New Slide
Start PowerPoint and create a new slide. Choose a blank layout for a clean look.

Step 2: Insert a SmartArt Graphic
Go to “Insert,” click “SmartArt,” select “Hierarchy,” and pick an org chart design.

Step 3: Enter Information
Fill in your org chart with names and roles. Add or remove shapes as needed.

Step 4: Make It Pop
PowerPoint is built for visuals—use “Design” and “Format” tools to add color, effects, or animations. Your org chart can be as simple or as dynamic as you like.

Tips for Better Org Charts

• Keep It Simple: Don’t overload the chart with too many details.
• Stay Consistent: Use the same style for all boxes and fonts.
• Update Regularly: Org charts lose value if they’re outdated.
• Export and Share: All three apps let you save your chart as an image or PDF for easy sharing.

Final Thoughts

Word, Excel, and PowerPoint all make it easy to build an organizational chart in just a few minutes. Choose the app that fits your workflow and presentation style. With these steps, your org chart will be clear, professional, and easy to update—no fancy software required.

Need more tips on business productivity or Microsoft Office? Check out our other guides!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!