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D2 project preview
Developer ToolsAlternative to LucidchartAlternative to PlantUMLAlternative to Mermaid

D2

Modern declarative diagramming language that turns text into diagrams.

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LicenseMPL-2.0
GitHub stars17.5k
Last commit1 weeks ago
Tags6 topics
DeclarativeDocumentationArchitectureGolangDiagrams As CodeCharts
Overview

Why consider D2?

D2 is a modern declarative diagramming language written in Go. It turns human-readable text into clean software architecture diagrams, UML charts, and interactive documentation.

Guided learning

Learn D2 by building

Practical setup notes, real use cases, and copy-ready examples in one focused guide.

1 min read 3 sections
In this guide3 sections

Overview of D2

D2 features expressive syntax, custom themes, Markdown code block embeds, and multiple layout engines (TALA, ELK, Graphviz) for automated layout optimization.

Installing and Running D2

bash
1curl -fsSL https://d2lang.com/install.sh | sh
2d2 input.d2 output.svg

D2 Syntax Example

d2
1server -> database: read/write
2client -> server: HTTPS request

D2 is licensed under the Mozilla Public License Version 2.0 (MPL-2.0).

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D2 FAQs

D2 is listed as a Developer Tools tool on TiloBox. Review the overview, features, and official documentation on this page to decide whether it solves your specific workflow.

Start with the project's GitHub repository and official website for supported installation and deployment instructions. Test the setup with representative data or a small project before rolling it out more widely.

D2 is listed under the MPL-2.0 license. Read the complete license text and the project's notices before using, modifying, or distributing the software.

Production readiness depends on your requirements. Review maintenance activity, security practices, documentation, backup and upgrade procedures, and compatibility with your stack; then validate it in a non-production environment.

D2 is listed as an alternative to Lucidchart. Compare the core workflow, deployment model, integrations, and licensing against your must-have requirements before switching.