What is a hamburger chart?

The Hamburger Chart offers a deliciously creative way to visualize layered systems, technology stacks, or hierarchical structures using the familiar metaphor of a hamburger or sandwich. This playful yet professional visualization makes complex layered architectures more approachable and memorable.

Key Features

• Layered visualization: Stack up to 9 different layers to represent system components
• Ingredient variety: Choose from different visual elements (patty, cheese, mayo, veggie patty, salad)
• Custom labeling: Each layer includes descriptive text for clear identification
• Flag customization: Add a custom title flag to brand your technology stack
• Visual appeal: Engaging food metaphor makes technical concepts more accessible

Best Use Cases

• Technology stack documentation: Show application layers from database to user interface
• Architecture diagrams: Represent system tiers and their relationships
• Process layers: Visualize sequential steps or hierarchical procedures
• Product composition: Break down complex products into component parts
• Organizational hierarchy: Show management or operational layers
• Software architecture: Display microservices, middleware, and infrastructure layers

Configuration Options

Build your perfect hamburger chart with flexible options:

• Flag title: Customize the banner text that appears above your hamburger
• Layer ingredients: Select from various visual components for each layer
• Layer labels: Add descriptive text to explain each component’s purpose

Creative Applications

The hamburger metaphor works particularly well because:

• Familiarity: Everyone understands how hamburger layers work together
• Visual hierarchy: Clear top-to-bottom structure shows system organization
• Component relationships: Layers naturally stack and interact with adjacent components
• Memorable presentation: Food metaphors are more engaging than traditional diagrams

Design Considerations

• Layer order matters: Arrange ingredients logically from bottom to top
• Visual balance: Mix different ingredient types for optimal visual appeal
• Content clarity: Use descriptive labels that clearly explain each layer’s purpose

This visualization transforms potentially dry technical documentation into an engaging, memorable presentation that audiences will remember long after your presentation ends.

Hamburger Chart: What's new?