SmartDraw vs ScenePD

Learn why law enforcement organizations prefer SmartDraw over ScenePD

While both ScenePD and SmartDraw create accurate crime scene diagrams, SmartDraw is the stronger choice for law enforcement organizations as a whole. In addition to its crime scene and accident reconstruction diagramming capabilities, SmartDraw can be used to create org charts, network diagrams, operational workflows, and more. One tool to cover every department and it works in any modern web browser.

Features SmartDraw ScenePD Why It Matters
Create Floor Plans and Crime Scenes Yes Yes Both tools allow you to create floor plans from scratch to set the scene.
Import Existing Floor Plans Yes Limited SmartDraw allows users to import a PDF or an image. ScenePD only allows users to import an image.
Import Google Maps/GIS Yes Yes Both tools allow you to import satellite images from Google Maps or GIS.
Import Images Yes Yes Both tools allow users to import an image that represents evidence found at the scene.
Crime Scene Symbols Yes Yes Both tools have plenty of crime scene symbols you can drag-and-drop to your scene.
Custom Shapes Yes No SmartDraw allows users to create and save custom shapes for their crime scenes.
Shape Data Yes No Only SmartDraw allows users to attach key data to all symbols.
iPad Support Yes No Only SmartDraw allows users to use mobile devices like iPads and Andriod tablets. ScenePD is Windows only.
Web-Based Access Yes No SmartDraw works in any modern web browser. ScenePD works only on Windows.
Editable Templates Yes Limited SmartDraw offers dozens of ready-to-edit crime scene, floor plan, accident reconstruction, site plan, and other templates.
Layers Yes Limited SmartDraw offers layers that you can customize to fit the needs of your diagram. With ScenePD, you are limited to their set layers.
Export to RMS Compatible Format Yes Yes Both tools allow you to export your diagram to a RMS compatible format.
Export Options PDF, SVG, JPG, PNG, Office, Visio PowerPoint, PDF, XML SmartDraw offers more export options.
3rd Party Storage Integrations OneDrive, SharePoint, Google Drive, Dropbox, Box No Only SmartDraw integrates with third party storage solutions.
Real-Time Co-Editing Yes No Only SmartDraw lets you collaborate instantly.
Version History Yes No Only SmartDraw allows users to restore older versions of a file.
Shareable Link Yes No SmartDraw lets you share projects with anyone, even if they aren't SmartDraw users.
Business Diagrams Yes No In addition to crime scene and accident reconstruction diagrams, SmartDraw users have the ability to create all types of floor plans, flowcharts, org charts, network diagrams, and more.
Overall Best For Law enforcement organizations in need of a versatile tool they can access from any device and cover their entire department. Law enforcement professionals who just need to document crime scenes on Windows desktop machines.

Why Law Enforcement Organizations Prefer SmartDraw Over ScenePD

SmartDraw Works in the Field or Any Web Browser

SmartDraw is accessible through the web, meaning no matter where your team is, SmartDraw is there. All your files are stored in the cloud, making them easy to view, edit, and share whether you're in the field or at the office. ScenePD has to be downloaded to your computer and is only accessible from the device it's installed on.

SmartDraw works anywhere

SmartDraw Allows Users to Attach Data to Diagrams

SmartDraw allows users to attach key data directly to symbols within their diagram. This is crucial for law enforcement professionals who rely on reporting and analysis. ScenePD only allows users to add data to some of their symbols, not all.

Adding shape data to crime scene symbol

SmartDraw Supports Real-Time Collaboration

Unlike ScenePD, SmartDraw supports real-time collaboration where multiple users can view and edit a crime scene or accident reconstruction diagram at the same time. This is an important feature for police departments where detectives and investigators may all need to contribute to the same diagram.

Team collaborating on an crime scene diagram

SmartDraw Supports Custom Symbols Libraries

SmartDraw allows law enforcement professionals to create and save custom symbols that can be reused when needed to enhance their crime scene and accident reconstruction diagrams.

Making custom police symbol library

SmartDraw Offers Something for Every Department

ScenePD is built for creating crime scene diagrams. SmartDraw lets law enforcement professionals create other diagram types as well. They can use it for evacuation planning and accident reconstruction, update organizational charts and workflows, or make network diagrams. There's something for every department, not just a crime scene and accident reconstruction diagrams.

Collection of business diagrams

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About SmartDraw vs ScenePD

What is the main difference between SmartDraw and ScenePD?

ScenePD is a Windows only program built just to document crime scenes. SmartDraw is available on any web browser and can be used in the field. SmartDraw is also a more versatile tool that includes strong law enforcement capabilities, along with diagrams for HR, IT, and other departments.

Can SmartDraw create crime scene diagrams?

Yes. SmartDraw offers a dedicated crime scene library with thousands of symbols including weapons, blood spatter, body positions, and more. It also supports scaled drawings, satellite image import, and layers to create court-ready documentation.

Does SmartDraw support collaboration?

Yes. SmartDraw supports real-time co-editing, allowing multiple users to work on the same crime scene or accident reconstruction diagram simultaneously. ScenePD does not offer real-time collaboration.

Can you use ScenePD in the field?

ScenePD is limited to Windows desktops, which can make field access more difficult. SmartDraw works in any modern browser, including on iPads, Andriod tablets, Mac, and laptops, giving teams more flexibility to work in the field or on the go.

Does ScenePD support PDF imports?

No. ScenePD does not allow users to import PDFs to use as a background layer. SmartDraw, on the other hand, does support PDF imports.

Does SmartDraw allow you to export to an RMS?

Yes. SmartDraw allows you to export your crime scene or accident reconstruction diagram in an RMS compatible format.

Where are files stored with SmartDraw vs ScenePD?

SmartDraw stores files in the cloud and integrates with OneDrive, SharePoint, Google Drive, Dropbox, and Box. This lets departments save crime scene diagrams in the storage systems they already use while making files easier to access, share, and collaborate on across teams. ScenePD primarily stores files locally on the computer where it is installed and does not offer the same level of third-party cloud storage integration, giving SmartDraw an advantage for departments that need flexible access and collaboration.

Does SmartDraw require a lot of training?

No. SmartDraw is easy to use without any specialized training at all. If users do need help, it has an extensive knowledge base, video tutorials, and in-house support for any questions.

Law Enforcement Organizations Choose SmartDraw

ScenePD is a great tool for documenting crime scenes on Windows desktops, but that's where it stops. If you are looking for a tool that can work in the field and extend beyond crime scene and accident reconstruction diagrams, SmartDraw is the stronger option.