WHAT IS A HIERARCHICAL DIAGRAM? MAIN FEATURES - CULTURE VOCABULARY - 2025

A hierarchical diagram is a graphic resource used as a cognitive strategy to help organize and structure the relationships between the different parts of a system. The organization will depend on the relationships within the hierarchical structure, in which the highest levels of power belong to the upper parts of the diagram.

The hierarchical diagram allows you to break down a given system into several levels. The classification of these strata is done in relation to the value of the element or concept that appears within the diagram, each one with a lower or higher level of complexity and value depending on the case.

As a result, it is also considered as a tool that determines the flow of information and ideas in a descending way. This model helps to understand more easily the operation and organization of the structure, since it reflects the subordination relationship that exists between each element.

A hierarchical diagram makes it possible to be clear about the functions of each entity and avoid interference in that regard. These can be in different ways, depending on the user's preference; the characteristics of the different formats will depend on the best way to present the information, depending on its nature.

Structure of the hierarchical diagram

The structure of a hierarchical diagram shows the superordination and subordination of ideas or concepts of a given system.

That is, this type of diagram is characterized by the order that the elements previously have within their relationship system.

For this reason, the organization of the data is divided into different levels and framed by boxes with connecting lines, helping to establish the relationships between them.

Generally, this type of structure tends to have a pyramidal or chronological tree shape, like the parent / child relationship.

Styles

There are various formats in which hierarchical diagrams can be represented. These include the following:

- Vertical.

- Horizontal.

- Circulars.

- Scale.

Segmentations

The segmentations between a hierarchical diagram and a hierarchical data model are relatively similar. The only difference is in the use that is assigned to the segmentations according to the management system that uses the hierarchical data model.

However, both use similar links to define constraints between one component and another. In the same way, the hierarchical diagram uses the logical structure to indicate the entities and the interrelationships of the components.

There are three types of segmentations or levels within a hierarchical diagram:

Parent segment

It is the theme, concept or main character. It is called this way because within this system it acts as the parent of the subtopics, which are the child segments.

The parent segment can be easily identified because it has descendants located at the same lower level.

Child segment

They are all subtopics or supporting concepts that depend on a top-level segment, such as the parent segment.

Root segment

It is unique and can occupy a place at the top level of the diagram, since it does not have a parent segment.

Advantages of the hierarchical diagram

- Facilitates the division of functions.

- It does not allow interference between the command lines.

- The identification of hierarchical relationships is clearly developed.

- The organization is more adaptable and agile to changes.

Disadvantages of the hierarchical diagram

- Data or relevant information may be missing due to the rigidity of its structure.

- It is ineffective when you need more knowledge about any of the levels.

- The hierarchical structure can generate redundancies.

- The design can be monotonous to the eye.

References

1. Grene, M. (1969). The hierarchy: one word, but how many concepts? Whyte, L. Madrid.
2. Mesarovic, M. and Macko, D. (1973). Hierarchical structures. Editorial Alliance, Madrid.
3. Saéz-Vacas, F. and Lampaya, D. (1982). Multivélica and quasi-component conception of complete systems. Computer application. Act V Congress of Computer Science and Automation.
4. Simon, H. (1962). The architecture of complexity. Proceedings American Philosophical Society.
5. Whyte, L. (1969). The structural hierarchies. Whyte, L. Madrid.