Blockdiag
blockdiag is an open-source Python library and command-line tool that generates block-style diagram images from simple text files. It supports multiple diagram types like block diagrams, sequence diagrams, activity diagrams, and more.
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blockdiag: Open-Source Python Library for Block Diagrams
Blockdiag generates block-style diagram images from simple text files, supporting various diagram types including block diagrams, sequence diagrams, and activity diagrams.
What is Blockdiag?
blockdiag is an open-source Python library and command-line tool for generating various types of block-style diagrams from simple text files. It was created to help software developers visualize systems and structures in a simple, fast way without needing to use full-featured diagramming software.
Some key features and capabilities of blockdiag include:
- Supports different types of diagrams out of the box including block diagrams, sequence diagrams, activity diagrams, logical network diagrams, and more
- Simple syntax for defining nodes and connections between them
- Automatic layout and styling of diagrams
- Configurable styling through themes and custom CSS
- Image output in PNG, SVG, and other formats
- Integration with Sphinx documentation generator
- Command-line interface and Python API for automation
blockdiag makes it easy to visualize architectures, flows, relationships and other aspects of complex systems. Instead of using graphical editors, the text-based syntax allows developers to generate diagrams programmatically and include them in documentation and reports. The automatic layout algorithms reduce the effort of manually positioning elements.
It's a useful tool for software engineers, system administrators, technical writers, and others who need to create simple but effective diagrams to document systems and applications.
Blockdiag Features
Features
- Generates block-style diagrams from simple text files
- Supports multiple diagram types like block diagrams, sequence diagrams, activity diagrams
- Open-source Python library and command-line tool
- Customizable with configuration files and theming
- Automatic layout of diagram elements
Pricing
- Open Source
Pros
Simple text-based syntax
Good for documenting architecture and workflows
Extensible and customizable
Available on multiple platforms
Cons
Limited built-in shape libraries
Steeper learning curve than GUI diagram tools
Rendering complex diagrams can be slow
Official Links
The Best Blockdiag Alternatives
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