Hierarchical Structures Definition
Hierarchical structures — created by contrasting visual elements in a composition. By using hierarchy, we control how the viewer interacts with information to ensure that they navigate and absorb information in the right way.
Visual elements with the highest contrast are noticed first. For example: we use visual elements to direct the user’s eyes where to look in the first, second, and third place.
Types of hierarchical structures
Hierarchical structures are all about prevalent organization of structure managing complex systems and networks underpinned modern technology infrastructure which are not a casual stroll. Here are 4 leading types to keep it not a rocket science subject and akin to stacking blocks:
- Network dividing data into layers based on their functions and levels of access for users something like OSI model that divides network functionality into seven layers.
- File system or more known as a tree-like structure with folders created to store all the data and subdirectories for easy navigation and management of data.
- System architecture it’s all about organizing components according to their functionality and dependencies.
- Organizational IT stands for data management implemented within IT organizations and departments it defines its role, responsibilities, reporting relationships.
Benefits of hierarchical structures
Such an approach is used by not only businesses but also various institutions so that the usage is wild owing to the pyramid-like appearance that makes a clear vision of authority for every component they build in their software. Those there are some advantages you can receive from a hierarchical structure:
- Knowing who is who: to put it simply, you are implementing up to down method to know who calls the shots whether it is about classes, modules, or functions. Therefore, the solution is built with bug-free in mind, with each component to know their responsibility and what they have to do in terms of their accountability.
- Reuse the model: when done right, hierarchical structures will save your time and resources as you don’t need to reinvent the wheel and use the same approach for another project whether it will be built from scratch or reinforced.
- Scale up: without a clear hierarchy, you need to start over once your system crashes, and sadly, it can happen due to unexpected circumstances which become your headache as you have to define where is the start of your components, how they are interconnected, and more.
Challenges of hierarchical structures
Tech-savvy experts indicate that it is not the perfect option that fits for all projects, and you will recognize the one that fits your needs when you learn both pros and cons, so here are some daunting nuances to be aware of:
- Complicated changes: as all teh components in relationship parent-child are tight, just like in real life, making some minor changes cause issues with the main or subclasses. Imagine that you are building a chain and suddenly you understand that you made a mistake almost at the beginning, so you have to start over.
- Poor maintenance: you need to follow the logic and have a clear view of which file is connected and how they are linked as when it comes to debugging, you may be lost with multiple files to check.