Hierarchical Graph Layout EssentialsExpert insights and techniques
The "Graph Layouts in yFiles" webinar series explores advanced techniques and best practices for effective graph visualization.
This second episode focuses on the essentials of the yFiles hierarchical layout, a powerful algorithm designed to create aesthetically pleasing, natural-looking network diagrams. The webinar covers its applications and unique characteristics, supported by practical examples. Key features and capabilities of the hierarchical layout are highlighted, followed by strategies for integrating sublayouts, including parallel structures, star configurations, and tree structures.
The session is led by Dr. Benjamin Niedermann, a Senior Algorithm Engineer specializing in graph layouts at yWorks. He brings in-depth knowledge of graph algorithms and visualization techniques to the discussion.
Build structured diagrams with hierarchical layout
Whether you're visualizing "organizational charts," "workflow processes," or "dependency trees," yFiles offers the perfect tools to bring clarity to complex hierarchies. Our free trial grants you full access to the advanced hierarchical layout algorithms, allowing you to create clear, well-organized diagrams that are easy to navigate and understand. From software architecture diagrams to business process modeling, yFiles supports a wide range of use cases across platforms like Web, Java, and .NET.
With our trial, you also benefit from direct support by our core developers, ensuring you have the help you need to solve any challenges. Whether you're starting a new project or refining existing hierarchical structures, yFiles provides the powerful tools you need.
Start organizing your "hierarchical data visualizations" with yFiles' hierarchical layout today!
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Watch the full webinar episode
Watch the full episode below to gain a comprehensive understanding of hierarchical layouts in yFiles.Dr. Benjamin Niedermann walks you through the core concepts and provides practical demonstrations.

About yFiles: The graph visualization SDK
yFiles is your go-to SDK for crafting advanced graph visualizations, whether you're working with Web, Java, or .NET technologies. Its unmatched flexibility and scalability enable you to convert complex data into clear, actionable visuals, fitting for both enterprise and startup needs.
With yFiles, you're equipped for the future—supporting any data source while maintaining strong data security. Getting started is seamless, thanks to over 300 source-code demos, thorough documentation, and direct access to core developer support. These resources are available even during your free trial.
Backed by 25 years of graph drawing expertise, yFiles is trusted by top companies worldwide for their most critical visualization tasks.
Discover yFilesWhy developers worldwide rely on yFiles — 11 key facts!
Key topics covered in this webinar
- What are hierarchical layouts?
- Benefits of using hierarchical layouts in graph visualization
- Step-by-step guide to applying hierarchical layouts
- Real-world examples and best practices
Detailed breakdown of this episode
- 00:00 Introduction: Overview of the webinar series and objectives of this episode.
- 03:24 Graph Layout Overview: Introduction to various graph layout techniques and their use cases.
- 06:47 Hierarchical Layout | Introduction & Use Cases: Explanation of the hierarchical layout and its common applications.
- 15:06 Hierarchical Layout | Principles: Core principles guiding the hierarchical layout.
- 22:25 Coding a Hierarchical Layout with HTML: Basic setup and implementation of a hierarchical layout in HTML.
- 32:42 Coding - Custom Layering: Advanced techniques for customizing layer arrangements.
- 41:45 Coding - Custom Sequencing: Methods for customizing node sequencing.
- 45:31 Coding - Edge Routing: Techniques for routing edges in a hierarchical layout.
- 57:50 Coding - Incremental Layout: Strategies for incremental layout adjustments.
- 01:01:12 Conclusion: Summary of key takeaways from the session.
- 01:04:00 Q&A Session: Dr. Benjamin Niedermann answers audience questions.
Create powerful graph apps using hierarchical layout.
Get started with yFiles!Additional episode resources
- Detailed guide on hierarchical layouts: Understand how to effectively structure your graphs using hierarchical layouts.
- Hierarchical layout demo: Direct access to the hierarchical layout demo.
- Explore yFiles demos: See practical examples of graph layouts in action.
- Learn more about yFiles: Discover more about the capabilities of yFiles.
- Download yFiles for free: Get hands-on with yFiles by evaluating it for free.