CodeGraph: an Interactive Dependency Analyzer for JavaScript Projects

Abstract

Gaining an understanding of a codebase is a vital task for both software developers and project managers. Traditional text-based tools are sub-optimal for achieving this. We have developed CodeGraph, a web application that visualizes the dependency graph of JavaScript projects. This allows users to visually explore the relation between the different files in the project. Additionally, it provides the user with statistics on the project and information about the individual files. Through a small number of usability tests, we have determined that CodeGraph facilitates better understanding of a JavaScript project and allows for a more pleasant user experience than traditional text-based tools.