A visual representation of hierarchical data, designed for physical output via a printer, displays relationships between elements. One example is a family chart, showing ancestral connections and descendant lineages in a structured, branching format. Another instance is an organizational chart depicting the reporting structure within a company.
These diagrams offer tangible accessibility and ease of distribution. Hard copies allow for convenient reference without reliance on electronic devices or software. Historically, such diagrams were manually drawn; now, software facilitates automated creation and printing, saving considerable time and effort while maintaining visual clarity.
The following sections explore methods for creating effective visual representations of hierarchical structures optimized for output and discuss their practical applications across various domains.