Miro vs Visio: A Comprehensive Comparison for Selection
Intro
In today's fast-paced digital landscape, organizations require effective tools for visual collaboration and diagramming. Miro and Microsoft Visio are two popular software solutions that aim to address these needs. Miro is geared towards collaborative brainstorming, while Visio focuses on creating detailed technical diagrams. This article seeks to examine both platforms in detail, shedding light on their respective features, functionalities, and target audiences. The goal is to provide a resource that informs decision-makers in selecting the right software tailored to their specific workflow and project requirements.
Software Overview
Software category and its purpose
Miro and Microsoft Visio belong to the software category of visual collaboration and diagramming tools. Miro is designed primarily for online collaboration, fostering a team environment where users can brainstorm, create mind maps, and design workflows in real time. Its cloud-based nature enables accessibility from various devices, which is crucial in today's remote work setting.
On the other hand, Microsoft Visio serves a different purpose. It specializes in creating complex diagrams, including flowcharts, organizational charts, and network diagrams. Visio is commonly utilized within corporate environments where precise representation of processes and systems is critical. This software is heavily integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem, making it convenient for users who already rely on other Microsoft products.
Key features and functionalities
Both tools distinguish themselves through unique features that cater to different use cases. Miro stands out with its intuitive interface and real-time collaboration capabilities. Users can take advantage of features such as:
- Pre-made templates
- Sticky notes for brainstorming
- Integration with various tools like Slack and Google Drive
Conversely, Microsoft Visio emphasizes detailed diagram creation, offering functionalities like:
- Extensive shape libraries
- Advanced data linking to visual elements
- Customization options to fit specific business needs
Furthermore, Visio provides the ability to export diagrams in various formats such as PDF and PNG, which is ideal for presentations and documentation purposes. Miro encourages creativity and team engagement, while Visio ensures precision and clarity in technical representations.
Comparative Analysis
Comparison with similar software products
When pitted against similar software, Miro and Visio present a distinct value proposition. For example, comparing Miro with tools like Trello and Asana reveals that Miro's strength lies in its visual flexibility and immersive collaboration features. Unlike Trello, which is primarily a task management tool, Miro fosters a more open-ended and creative environment.
In contrast, when comparing Visio with Lucidchart, users may discover that while both platforms offer diagramming capabilities, Visio's integration within the Microsoft Office suite provides it a competitive edge for enterprises already embedded in the Microsoft ecosystem.
Market positioning and user demographics
Miro attracts a broad user demographic, including educators, startup teams, and industries emphasizing agile methodologies. It is preferred by organizations that value creativity and flexibility. Its user-friendly interface minimizes the barrier to adoption, allowing teams to quickly engage without extensive training.
Visio, however, is positioned as a more serious tool aimed at IT professionals, engineers, and project managers. Its users often require features that facilitate the illustration of complex systems and processes. Therefore, Visio may be favored in larger enterprises where detailed analysis and precise documentation are required.
"Choosing the right visual collaboration tool is essential for aligning workflow and enhancing productivity. Understanding the core functionalities and the target audience helps inform better software selection."
In the following sections, we will explore their strengths, weaknesses, pricing strategies, and more to guide decision-makers in selecting the ideal software based on their unique needs.
Prologue to Visual Collaboration Tools
Visual collaboration tools play a crucial role in today's fast-paced work environment. They facilitate communication, brainstorming, and project management in real time. As businesses increasingly rely on remote and hybrid work models, having effective software for visual collaboration becomes essential.
These tools offer several benefits. First, they enhance clarity in communication. Diagrams, flowcharts, and other visual elements help convey complex ideas more succinctly than text alone. This is particularly valuable for teams scattered across different locations.
Moreover, they foster creativity and engagement among team members. Visual tools enable users to brainstorm visually, which can lead to innovative solutions and improved project outcomes. Facilitating this kind of engagement is important for cohesive teamwork.
When selecting a visual collaboration tool, it is crucial to consider specific elements. These may include the features offered by the software, its usability, the pricing model, and the target audience. Different teams and industries might have unique needs that require careful consideration.
Investing time in the right software can lead to enhanced productivity and more effective collaboration. Consequently, understanding the available options and their respective strengths and weaknesses will empower IT professionals, business owners, and project managers to make informed decisions.
"Choosing the appropriate visual collaboration tool can greatly influence team efficiency and project success."
In summary, visual collaboration tools are pivotal in driving successful teamwork and project execution. Their importance continues to grow as collaboration extends beyond traditional office settings.
Overview of Miro
Miro is a widely recognized online collaborative whiteboard platform that serves various industries. This overview serves to shed light on its essential characteristics, helping potential users understand its role in enhancing teamwork and visual communication.
Core Features
Miro provides a suite of tools aimed at fostering effective collaboration. Key features include:
- Infinite Canvas: Users can explore ideas freely, without the bounds of a typical page.
- Templates: A variety of templates for brainstorming, mind mapping, and project planning exist, simplifying the process of starting a new board.
- Real-Time Collaboration: Teams can interact simultaneously, adding a dynamic aspect to remote work.
- Integration Capabilities: Miro connects seamlessly with other tools like Slack, Jira, and Google Drive, ensuring a smooth workflow.
These features create a flexible environment for innovation and creativity.
Usability and User Experience
Miro is designed with user-friendliness in mind. The interface is intuitive, allowing individuals to quickly learn how to navigate the platform. Task management tools are accessible, making project tracking straightforward. Despite its vast array of functionalities, users often find that the learning curve is manageable even for beginners. This usability is one of the primary strengths that makes Miro appealing for teams transitioning from traditional methods to digital solutions.
Pricing and Subscription Models
Miro offers several pricing tiers to accommodate diverse needs. The free version allows for basic usage, suitable for small teams or individual projects. Upgraded plans introduce advanced features, including the ability to create an unlimited number of boards and access more integrations. Pricing varies based on the size of the team and choice of features, ensuring options for organizations of all sizes.
Target Audience
Miro targets a wide range of users. From educational institutions that require collaborative learning environments to corporate teams focused on agile methodologies, the platform caters to various sectors. Furthermore, it is beneficial for design, research, and project management professions, where visual communication is key to success. Those looking for a reliable tool for enhancing collaboration will find Miro an attractive option.
Overview of Microsoft Visio
Understanding Microsoft Visio is essential for making informed choices in the realm of visual collaboration and diagramming tools. As a long-established application, Visio provides a wide range of functionalities tailored for diagramming. It's important to examine its offerings closely, especially in a competitive landscape where alternatives like Miro exist.
Visio excels in providing sophisticated tools for creating complex diagrams such as flowcharts, organizational charts, and network diagrams. Its integration within the Microsoft ecosystem stands out, enhancing collaborative efforts among teams that rely on Microsoft Office products.
Core Features
Microsoft Visio boasts a multitude of core features that cater to a variety of diagramming needs. Notable features include:
- Extensive Template Library: Visio offers numerous pre-defined templates that help users jump-start their projects.
- Shape and Connector Options: The application contains a vast array of shapes and connectors suited for various industries.
- Data Linking: Users can connect diagrams to real-time data sources, allowing for dynamic updates and insightful representations.
- Collaboration Tools: Built-in collaboration features facilitate team efforts in real-time, making it easy to share and edit diagrams.
These features make Visio a robust choice for professionals needing detailed and technically oriented diagrams.
Usability and User Experience
The usability of Microsoft Visio is designed with ease of navigation in mind. Users familiar with other Microsoft tools will find the interface intuitive, minimizing the learning curve. The drag-and-drop functionality allows users to quickly assemble elements for their diagrams, making it efficient to create both simple and complex visuals. However, some users may find the advanced features somewhat overwhelming if they are beginners.
Pricing and Licensing Options
Understanding the pricing structure of Microsoft Visio is crucial for budget considerations. Visio offers various licensing options, including:
- Monthly Subscription: Ideal for businesses needing flexibility without long-term commitment.
- Annual Subscription: More cost-effective for organizations using the software regularly.
- One-Time Purchase: Available as a stand-alone product but may lack the latest updates.
Pricing varies based on the chosen plan, catering to different user needs and financial constraints.
Target Audience
Microsoft Visio primarily appeals to a diverse audience, including:
- IT Professionals: For network diagrams and system designs.
- Business Analysts: To visualize workflows and business processes.
- Project Managers: For project planning and management visualizations.
Its versatility allows companies across various sectors to benefit from its detailed diagramming capabilities. Understanding the target audience will help identify if Visio aligns with specific project requirements.
"The choice of visual collaboration software should be based on specific use cases and team requirements."
In summary, Microsoft Visio offers powerful diagramming features, suitable for advanced users seeking to create detailed visuals. Its pricing, usability, and core features make it a compelling choice for organizations reliant on diagrammatic representations.
Comparative Analysis of Features
In the realm of visual collaboration tools, the comparative analysis of features is crucial for understanding what each platform offers. Miro and Microsoft Visio serve distinct purposes but share similarities that warrant examination. The evaluation of features allows users to identify strengths and weaknesses, helping them make informed choices based on particular needs and workflows. By focusing on key aspects like collaboration capabilities, template availability, and integrations, decision-makers can align their software choice with organizational practices and objectives.
Collaboration Capabilities
Collaboration is at the heart of Miro and Visio's functionalities, shaping how teams interact and produce visual content. Miro is built with real-time collaboration in mind, allowing multiple users to edit boards simultaneously. This is particularly beneficial for remote teams needing instant feedback and brainstorming capabilities. Users can leave comments, tag team members, and connect work in a fluid, interactive environment.
In contrast, while Visio does support collaboration, it is more structured and typically used in environments that demand precision like project management or engineering design. Visio allows for shared documents; however, its collaboration may not feel as fluid as Miro's because it often relies on Microsoft 365's environment for real-time input. Thus, if your team often involves brainstorming and informal collaborations, Miro’s approach to fluid interaction could be more suitable.
Template Availability
Templates streamline the process of creating diagrams and flowcharts, a feature both Miro and Visio offer but in different contexts. Miro offers a plethora of customizable templates across diverse categories, aiming to support a wide range of creative processes, from strategy planning to design thinking. These templates facilitate quick startup and ease of use, allowing teams to focus more on content rather than formatting.
Conversely, Visio’s templates are more specialized and cater to industries that require precise schematics, such as engineering and IT. The availability of industry-specific templates in Visio allows users to maintain a high degree of accuracy in representation. If you work in a technical field, the tools offered by Visio may help you adhere to necessary standards. Hence, the choice largely depends on whether your focus is creative brainstorming or formal documentation.
Integration with Other Tools
Integration significantly enhances the overall functionality of software platforms. Miro excels in connecting seamlessly with a variety of tools such as Slack, Google Drive, and Trello, fostering an ecosystem conducive to teamwork and task management. This integration allows for effortless transitions between platforms, ensuring that all team members can access essential documents and discussions without hindrance.
Visio, while it integrates well within the Microsoft ecosystem, such as SharePoint and Teams, may pose limitations when connecting with non-Microsoft tools. If your organization predominantly employs Microsoft products, Visio offers a seamless experience. However, for teams that use a wider array of applications, Miro's flexibility may serve better.
Both platforms offer unique capabilities; understanding these distinctions aids teams in aligning their software choice with specific needs. This comprehensive analysis of collaboration, templates, and integration highlights that the decision between Miro and Visio hinges on the specific contextual uses in the organization.
"Choose a tool that complements your workflow rather than reshaping it."
By examining these elements carefully, businesses can find tools that enhance productivity and effectiveness.
Usability and Learning Curve
The usability and learning curve of software are crucial aspects to consider when selecting the right tool for visual collaboration. A user-friendly interface can significantly impact the efficiency of teams and their ability to adopt the software quickly. Users increasingly seek platforms that minimize the time required to learn and adapt. Therefore, understanding how Miro and Visio measure up in terms of usability not only informs decision-making but also enhances overall productivity in collaborative environments.
Miro's Interface and Accessibility
Miro offers a highly intuitive interface designed for ease of use. Its drag-and-drop functionality allows users to quickly place elements onto the canvas, which is particularly beneficial for users new to digital collaboration tools. The interface is clean and visually appealing, helping users focus on their tasks without being distracted by unnecessary clutter.
Moreover, Miro emphasizes accessibility. The platform includes a range of templates and pre-built structures that simplify the creation of diagrams. Users can access these templates based on their project type, which reduces the time spent on design work. Miro's adaptability across devices, including tablets and smartphones, means users can collaborate seamlessly wherever they are. This flexibility is crucial for teams that work remotely or on-the-go.
Visio's Interface and Learning Experience
Visio, as part of the Microsoft suite, provides a familiar interface for users accustomed to other Microsoft products like Word or Excel. This familiarity can ease the learning process for many. However, the interface comes with a steeper learning curve for those without prior experience with Visio or similar diagramming tools.
The tool has various features tailored for professional use, which can make initial navigation challenging. Users might find the multitude of options daunting at first. However, once the initial learning phase is overcome, the depth of functionality becomes clear. Visio offers detailed styling and elements that can enhance professional presentations. To aid users, Microsoft provides extensive documentation and tutorials, which can be particularly beneficial during the early stages of learning.
In summary, both Miro and Visio present distinct usability experiences. Miro leans towards accessibility and quick onboarding, making it suitable for teams focused on speed and efficiency. In contrast, Visio provides a more robust toolkit that may require dedicated understanding but ultimately offers extensive features. Thus, the choice between Miro and Visio should consider the specific needs and familiarity of the intended users.
Pricing Structures Compared
Pricing structures for software tools like Miro and Microsoft Visio significantly impact user decisions. Understanding the cost implications helps organizations allocate their budget efficiently while maximizing the return on investment. As software selection processes often extend beyond just examining features, knowing the pricing models and their implications is crucial for businesses aiming to find the appropriate solution fitting their needs. In this section, we will delve into the cost-effectiveness of each tool, highlighting the elements that define their value proposition and how users can best utilize them for their projects.
Cost Effectiveness of Miro
Miro presents a flexible pricing strategy catering to various user requirements. Their subscription model includes a free tier, which allows users to access basic features without commitment. This can be particularly advantageous for small teams or startups looking to test the waters before investing in a premium option.
For organizations that opt for paid plans, Miro provides tiers like Team and Business, with increasing functionalities. The Team plan focuses on enhancing collaboration with unlimited boards, templates, and integrations with tools like Slack and Google Drive. The Business plan adds even more advanced features such as dedicated customer support and customizable templates, making it suitable for larger enterprises.
Miro’s pricing structure also underscores value through potential savings. With the ability to support multiple projects and cross-functional teams on a single platform, businesses can reduce costs associated with multiple subscriptions to other collaborative tools. This centralized approach can yield significant savings in the long run, thereby enhancing Miro's cost-effectiveness for organizations that prioritize collaborative efforts.
Cost Effectiveness of Visio
Microsoft Visio operates under a different pricing paradigm. Its licensing model consists of a subscription option, or a one-time purchase, either of which may better serve various organizational structures. The subscription model includes access to continually updated features and cloud services via Microsoft 365, aligning with larger enterprises that require constant software evolution.
Visio’s pricing is considered more rigid compared to Miro’s flexibility. While it does provide robust options for diagramming and complex process mapping suitable for IT professionals, its entry price can be higher. Additionally, the lack of a free tier might deter smaller teams or those seeking lower-cost solutions. However, the inclusion of Visio in Microsoft 365 can justify the investment for businesses already embedded in the Microsoft ecosystem, thus enhancing its overall cost-effectiveness.
In summary, the choice between Miro and Visio relies heavily on the specific needs of the organization. While Miro offers flexible, scalable pricing suitable for various team sizes and projects, Visio's strength lies in its comprehensive feature set for professional-grade diagramming, backed by strong integration with Microsoft products. The analysis of cost-effectiveness should always be aligned with the strategic goals of the organization to ensure the best return on investment for software acquisition.
Customer Experiences and Reviews
Customer experiences and reviews play a crucial role in assessing the effectiveness and suitability of visual collaboration tools such as Miro and Microsoft Visio. User feedback offers real-world insights that can illuminate the strengths and weaknesses of each software. These insights can significantly aid in decision-making processes for businesses and professionals who seek reliable tools for their collaborative and diagramming needs.
Understanding customer experiences allows potential users to gauge how well each tool operates in various environments. Reviews highlight not just the primary features but also user satisfaction, which is vital for long-term usability. Analyzing reviews helps to uncover common issues or advantages that may not be evident through standard marketing materials or feature lists.
By considering user feedback, organizations can better align their specific requirements with the functionalities of each platform. Additionally, positive testimonials increase confidence in the software choice while negative reviews can serve as warnings against potential pitfalls. Thus, exploring customer experiences provides a comprehensive picture, leading to more informed software selection.
User Feedback on Miro
User feedback on Miro indicates a generally positive reception within the community of visual collaboration enthusiasts. Many users appreciate its intuitive interface, which enables quick onboarding for teams of all sizes. Several comments highlight its flexibility in handling diverse tasks, from brainstorming sessions to project planning.
Key strengths noted in user feedback include:
- Collaboration Features: Users frequently commend Miro for its real-time collaboration capabilities. The ability to work simultaneously with team members enhances productivity.
- Versatility of Templates: Many users find the variety of templates beneficial. These templates help to streamline workflow, especially during initial brainstorming phases.
- Integration Options: The capacity for integration with other tools like Slack and Google Drive is also a recurring positive theme in the reviews. This streamlines workflows and enhances productivity, making collaboration seamless.
However, there are some criticisms. A few users report issues with lagging performance in larger boards and the learning curve associated with finding advanced features. Despite this, Miro remains a strong choice according to most user feedback, especially for dynamic and collaborative environments.
User Feedback on Visio
The responses concerning Microsoft Visio are varied, reflecting a more mixed reception. While many users appreciate its extensive capabilities for diagramming and creating complex designs, others express concern over its steep learning curve and comparatively high cost.
Noteworthy aspects from user reviews include:
- Professional-grade Capabilities: Users often highlight Visio's advanced diagramming tools. It is praised for its ability to handle intricate diagrams, making it a go-to for professionals in fields such as engineering and IT.
- Integration with Microsoft Office: Many reviews commend Visio’s seamless integration with other Microsoft products. This can be a significant advantage for teams already utilizing the Microsoft ecosystem.
- User Support: Some users have noted effective customer support that assists in troubleshooting and maximizing the software's utilities.
On the downside, some feedback mentions the difficulty in mastering the software effectively. Additionally, the licensing structure has been criticized for not being cost-effective for smaller teams. Overall, while Visio is highly regarded for its capabilities, its practicality may depend on specific use cases and user familiarity with complex software.
Industry Applications and Use Cases
Understanding the industry applications and use cases for Miro and Microsoft Visio is crucial for companies deciding on the most effective visual collaboration tool. Each software serves distinct functions based on the specific requirements of different sectors. The right tool can enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and foster clear communication. This section provides insights into how both Miro and Visio are utilized across various industries, explaining their unique selling points and practical applications.
Miro in Different Industries
Miro's versatility makes it suitable for a wide array of industries such as education, marketing, product management, and design. Its collaborative features allow teams to brainstorm in real-time, making it particularly impactful in creative and marketing environments. For example, agile teams utilize Miro for sprint planning and retrospectives, enabling rapid feedback and adaptation. Education sectors leverage Miro's visual aids for teaching, allowing students to engage with materials interactively. The platform can support remote learning, breaking geographical barriers.
Miro’s integration capabilities with tools like Slack and Google Drive streamline processes and enhance project management efficiency. Furthermore, its templates cater to various uses, from wireframing websites to planning marketing strategies. This adaptability across sectors underscores its value in fostering innovation and collaboration. Businesses focused on visual project mapping will find Miro particularly useful due to its flexibility in creating unlimited boards.
Visio in Different Industries
Microsoft Visio is heavily utilized in industries that require formal diagramming and documentation, such as engineering, IT, and operations management. Its advanced diagramming tools allow professionals to create precise flowcharts, network diagrams, and organizational charts, which are vital in technical documentation and presentations. In the engineering field, Visio supports complex project visualizations, ensuring clarity in intricate designs.
Visio is particularly favored by IT professionals for crafting system architecture diagrams and network layouts. The software’s integration with Microsoft Office enhances its usefulness, allowing data to be visually represented within existing documentation. Companies that prioritize regulatory compliance often employ Visio for process maps, ensuring every step is well-documented and adheres to industry standards.
In summary, Miro excels in collaborative and creative contexts, while Visio stands out in technical and formal environments. Each tool offers specific advantages that cater to the needs of diverse industries, which is essential for making informed software selection decisions.
"The effectiveness of a visual collaboration tool is determined largely by how well it fits the specific needs of the industry and the unique workflows of the teams employing it."
Both Miro and Visio have carved out significant niches based on their strengths, which helps underscore the importance of understanding the practical applications of each within various sectors.
Final Considerations for Selection
The section on final considerations for selection is crucial in guiding users towards an informed decision. Understanding when to choose between Miro and Microsoft Visio involves analyzing specific needs and contexts. This aspect can significantly influence the success of visual collaboration efforts. Each platform offers distinct functionalities that may align better with particular types of projects, team structures, or even organizational cultures. Thus, considering the specific use case is paramount.
The decision-making process should also factor in aspects such as the scale of implementation, team familiarity with interfaces, and long-term strategic goals. An evaluation here can provide clarity, making it easier to recognize the strengths of each tool in relation to the user's requirements.
The benefits of making a careful selection include improved productivity and enhanced collaboration among team members. A well-suited tool can streamline workflows and make the visualization process more effective. Taking the time to assess the unique qualities and capacities of both Miro and Visio ensures that organizations make strategic choices that reflect their operational goals.
When to Choose Miro
Miro is particularly ideal when flexibility and collaborative features take precedence. This platform excels in environments that require brainstorming, ideation, and real-time team engagement. If your team values visual interactivity and often works remotely, Miro's digital whiteboarding capabilities can create a seamless experience.
Certain scenarios warrant choosing Miro:
- Dynamic teams and projects: For quickly evolving projects that require frequent updates and input from multiple sources, Miro's user-friendly interface fosters a collaborative spirit.
- Diverse use cases: Miro is great for design sprints, user story mapping, and agile workflows, making it valuable across various departments.
- Integration capabilities: If your team utilizes various project management tools like Trello or Slack, Miro's ability to integrate with multiple platforms enhances its usability in a tech-savvy environment.
When to Opt for Visio
Visio shines in scenarios that prioritize structured diagramming and detailed documentation. It is well-suited for organizations that have defined processes, where detailed flowcharts, network diagrams, or organizational charts are routinely created. If your work necessitates rigor in visual representation, Visio could be the right choice.
Consider Visio for the following situations:
- Technical documentation: If your role involves creating detailed technical diagrams, Visio's sophisticated shapes and stencils are advantageous.
- Standardization: Organizations that rely on standard procedures may find Visio beneficial due to its templates that ensure consistency across documentation.
- Microsoft ecosystem integration: If your team primarily uses Microsoft products, the seamless compatibility with tools like SharePoint and Office Suite provides a cohesive user experience.
The choice between Miro and Visio should reflect the specific requirements of your projects and team dynamics. Taking into consideration the context in which the software will be used is vital for achieving the best outcomes.
Finale and Recommendations
The conclusion serves as a crucial element in this article, wrapping up the extensive analysis conducted on Miro and Microsoft Visio. Here, it is essential to synthesize the key insights and recommendations presented throughout the discussion to aid decision-makers in their software selection process.
Understanding User Needs
Every organization has unique requirements based on its workflows, team size, and project complexity. Therefore, understanding these needs is vital when choosing between Miro and Visio. Miro targets teams that prioritize collaboration and creativity, often found in agile environments. On the other hand, Visio appeals to users needing detailed and technical diagramming capabilities, best suited for structured environments like engineering or IT.
Key Considerations
- Feature Set
Assess the specific features important to your team. Miro’s strength lies in its real-time collaboration tools and intuitive interface, whereas Visio excels in its complex diagramming capabilities. - Usability
Evaluate the learning curve associated with each tool. Miro generally offers a more approachable user experience compared to Visio, which may require more training for effective use. - Pricing Models
Consider your budget. Miro offers flexible pricing tiers, making it accessible for startups. Conversely, Visio tends to have a higher upfront cost, reflecting its specialized functionalities.
Recommendations
- Choose Miro if:
- Opt for Visio if:
- Your team values collaboration and needs an easy-to-use platform.
- You want real-time feedback and brainstorming capabilities.
- You work predominantly in creative fields such as marketing or design.
- Your work involves extensive technical diagramming or project management.
- You require advanced features for creating detailed flowcharts and network diagrams.
- Your organization is already using Microsoft products, enabling seamless integration.
Ultimately, the choice between Miro and Visio depends on a clear understanding of your project's goals and team dynamics. By keeping the above considerations in mind, stakeholders can make informed decisions that optimize their workflow and enhance productivity. In embracing the right tool, organizations can better facilitate communication and collaboration, providing a solid foundation for their projects.
