convoluted question regarding visualization of perl code

[jfroebe]

Hi,

Is there some script or module that would allow me to produce a flow chart like visual representation of perl code? Maybe even at a high level?

The reason why I ask is that for me to really understand something I end up drawing out the relationships as well as the basic flow of a script. I know this can be done quite easily with database schemas, so I'm pretty certain someone has atleast created a partially working 'visualizer' for perl code.

I'm in NYC for work and my brain shut off about an hour ago so I'm not finding squat on it. personally, I think it is just hiding on me ;)

[kvale]

There was a talk by Leon Brocard about graphing perl program structure. Bsaically he used Devel::DProf in combination with the GraphViz module to produce pretty subroutine call graphs. He used Devel::SmallProf to produce line-level graphs. I don't know if he ever released the software, but knowing a solution exists with the aforementioned modules should be a good start.

[jfroebe]

Thanks Mark!! I know how to do it now :)

I'm now laughing like a mad scientist with a very bad caffeine addiction!

Update: The presentation given in the link was enough for me to start on it. When I get it to a semi working stage I will post it in the code section

[cowboy]

You say you have the solution, please, share it, I am sure many of us would like to hear about it. Some for practical reasons, others, for theoretical, but all for good. :)

[tphyahoo]

Not a perl answer.

But it sounds like you want something similar to what McCabe software has for java.

The above page doesn't mention perl support, but here perl is mentioned, kind of obscurely, so maybe they they have something if you want to ask.

I actually set up a demo with them once (for java), and it was really cool.

Horribly expensive though. No pricing info on their web page, first they give the demo then the shocking numbers. But that was over five years ago, maybe things have changed.

Since you asked about visualizing perl code, I'm guessing you inherited some code and want to get a handle or broad overview on it. I asked for and got some help on a (I think) related problem here at grepping out global vars?.

[bageler]

how about AutoDia: http://droogs.org/autodia/

Here's a perl-code based screenshot: http://droogs.org/autodia/images/fixed_self.png

[jfroebe]

Looks like I won't have to do as much as I thought!!! Thanks bageler!