grafvy

Grafvy is a term used in data visualization to denote a family of lightweight tools and conventions for creating interactive graph-based visualizations. It is typically implemented as a set of JavaScript libraries that offer a declarative API for describing graphs, their layouts, and their visual encodings. The term Grafvy is used by multiple independent projects rather than a single standardized specification.

Core features commonly associated with grafvy implementations include a node–edge data model with attributes such as labels, groups, and weights; multiple layout options (force-directed, hierarchical, circular); rendering in SVG or canvas; data interchange formats like JSON; and interactive capabilities such as dragging, zooming, tooltips, and element selection. Accessibility considerations and real-time updates are also emphasized in many projects.

Grafvy emerged in the broader movement toward interactive graph visualization in the 2010s and 2020s. It is maintained by diverse, community-driven repositories rather than a single company, and its components are often used as building blocks within larger data dashboards and educational tools.

Applications include network analysis, social graphs, knowledge graphs, bioinformatics, and software architecture visualization. The approach prioritizes readability and responsiveness, but performance can decline on very large graphs, and feature parity varies across implementations. Licensing is typically permissive, encouraging reuse in academic and commercial projects.

See also: Graphviz, D3.js, Cytoscape.