Microsoft Visio 2003 Standard Upgrade review:3 stars (Missing features of previous versions) - Visio 2003 Pro is a good product, but the fact that several key features are gone is the reason for a 3 star rating.

I use Visio 2003 Pro for general diagramming and for informal data modeling and process modeling in the course of developing system requirements. I used the simple data flow model diagram for years in Visio 2000, but 2003 has removed the "model" capabilities; it's just a picture now with no reusable components.

Pluses:
Good screen layout options
Still reverse-engineers databases
Better shape manipulation
Shape transparency

Minuses:
Removed "explorer" and modeling capabilities of Data Flow Model diagram
Does not generate DDL (Data Definition Language) anymore (need Visual Studio)
No longer exports to ERWin ERX files
Does not save to Visio 5 format (only 2002)
Removed Auto-Discovery
Removed a bunch of file converters and import tools

I recommend looking at Microsoft's "What you won't find in Microsoft Office Visio 2003" found at http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/assistance/HA010857571033.aspx.


5 stars (Does everything but tie your shoelaces for you) - I was able to turn out a complicated flowchart polished enough for professional training purposes in just two hours - despite having never used this kind of software before, and having no assistance whatsoever besides the program's own Help files. Now *that's* ease-of-use.1 stars (Beware!!! Not an upgrade for Visio 2003 Standard) - I just purchased this thinking that "of course I can upgrade to Visio 2003 Pro from Visio 2003 Standard". Nope. This is just plain silly. I still am trying to figure out if I can even upgrade my Visio *2003* Standard version to Professional.
Microsoft Visio 2003 Standard Upgrade Features:
Computer software (programs)
Graphics (Graphic)
Multimedia
Professional Design
desktop publishing
desk top publishing
Presentation (Presentational)
CD
Track reviewer's comments and customize your diagram, to meet the needs of your organization
Visio 2003 is the simple & flexible tool that documents and organizes complex ideas, processes, and systems -- and illustrates them for others!
It's never been easier to assemble diagrams -- just drag the pre-defined Microsoft SmartShapes symbols into the desired location
Generate common diagram types from all sorts of existing data, to put complex concepts, processes, and relationships into their proper context
Create visually rich diagrams that ive your ideas maximum impact -- then share them in workspace files on your team's SharePoint site

Microsoft Visio 2003 Standard Upgrade is the CD-ROM version. The full version can be purchased by clicking on the "CLICK HERE TO ORDER" button below for around 89.99USD.