How To Make a Crow's Foot ER Diagram

Entity relationship diagrams (ERD) are often used in software development and database design. Making an ERD needs using a specific set of symbols that depict most closely the unique features of a database being designed. The Crow’s Foot notation displays relationships between entities as single labeled lines. It is rather a popular standard, due to best readability on diagrams. The main characteristic of crow’s foot notation is a three-pronged fork symbol that represents multilateral relationships.

CS Odessa released a free Crow's Foot Notation solution that is available for use with ConceptDraw DIAGRAM This solution includes icons advocated by Crow's Foot notation that can be used when describing a database. It can be downloaded from the ConceptDraw STORE.

1. Run ConceptDraw DIAGRAM.
2. Reveal the Crow's Foot Notation solution on the solutions panel. Open the Crow's Foot library.
3. Add objects to the diagram by dragging them from the library to the document page.
4. Select connector to depict the proper relation (One-to-One, Many-to-Many etc.). To connect elements using this tool, drag the connector from one connect dot to another.

5. Make the selected connectors "Smart" using the Smart Connector tool. Smart connectors will automatically route around objects.

6. Use the Action button menu to change diagram elements. Click the icon in the upper right corner of the object.

7. Add text to your objects - simply select objects by one and enter the text.

Result: Crow's Foot ER diagram (ERD) represents a sample data base created for educational purposes.