Core Concepts
Explore DataLensia’s browser-based JSON tools, local processing model, JSON tree viewer, modular editors, validators, converters, and visual data workflows.
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DataLensia is designed around three core pillars: Privacy, Local Processing, and Modular Tools.
1. Client-Side Only (Privacy First)
Unlike traditional data tools, DataLensia never sends your data to a server for processing.
- All parsing happens in Web Workers to keep the UI responsive.
- Transformations run entirely in the browser's JavaScript engine.
- Visualizations are rendered using Canvas and SVG locally.
2. The JSON Tree
At the heart of DataLensia is the JSON Tree Viewer. When you upload or paste data, it is parsed and rendered as an interactive, collapsible tree. This allows you to navigate through large and deeply nested structures efficiently.
3. Modular Tools
DataLensia is a collection of focused, standalone tools rather than one monolithic application. You can use each tool independently:
- JSON Editor: Edit and view your JSON.
- Validator: Check and repair JSON.
- Comparator: Diff two JSON files.
- Schema Generator: Infer JSON Schema.
- Convert: Export to other formats.
- Transform Builder: Visually remap and transform data.
- Mermaid: Diagram your JSON structure.
- Flow Diagram: Explore JSON as an interactive flow diagram.
- Mock API: Serve JSON as a live endpoint.
Or use the workspace-integrated tools:
- Node Graph: Force-directed graph visualization.
- Data Explorer: Tabular browsing with filtering and sorting.
- Notes: Markdown editor for annotations.
4. Zero-Storage Sharing
DataLensia uses multi-algorithm compression to pack your workspace state into a URL. The engine automatically picks the shortest result among four strategies:
- V1 — LZ-String character encoding (best for legacy/very small payloads)
- V2 — Pako Deflate + Base64url (best for medium-sized JSON)
- V3 — Columnar layout + Pako (best for large, repetitive structures)
- V4 — Columnar layout + Key aliasing + Pako Deflate with static custom dictionary (best overall, offering minimal URL length for any workspace configuration)
This allows you to share your data, editor state, or transformation config with teammates without needing a database or user accounts.
🌈 Next Steps
- Explore Workspaces to learn how to save and manage your sessions.
- Explore Recipes for step-by-step guides on common tasks.