[CT-1385] [CT-1381] [Feature] Improved Lineage DAG Layout

[mkleinbort-ic]

Is this your first time submitting a feature request?

• I have read the expectations for open source contributors
• I have searched the existing issues, and I could not find an existing issue for this feature
• I am requesting a straightforward extension of existing dbt functionality, rather than a Big Idea better suited to a discussion

Describe the feature

I propose 2 features:

Pinned x-coordinate ranges for nodes in the Dag
Minimized cross overs when deciding the y-coordinate of models.

In my view the x-coordinate would be the best way to view layers.

For example, consider a DAG with 4 layers:

• Layer 1: Sources & Seeds
• Layer 2: Bronze
• Layer 3: Silver
• Layer 4: Gold

I'd want no layer 1 node to be to the right of a layer 2 node, etc...

With regards to minimizing edge crossings. I know this is hard (NP Hard), but I think dot and similar tools do a pretty good job. See https://docs.google.com/viewer?url=http://www.graphviz.org/pdf/dotguide.pdf

Describe alternatives you've considered

I considered exporting the DAG file and visualizing it myself

Who will this benefit?

Anyone who uses the DAG as a form of troubleshooting/documentation

Are you interested in contributing this feature?

No, I don't know JS

Anything else?

No response

[lostmygithubaccount]

thanks for opening @mkleinbort-ic! agree with improvements in this area in general, but it's likely not something we'll prioritize in the near future. going to transfer this to our dbt-docs repository and adjust the labels accordingly

[github-actions]

This issue has been marked as Stale because it has been open for 180 days with no activity. If you would like the issue to remain open, please comment on the issue or else it will be closed in 7 days.

[github-actions]

Although we are closing this issue as stale, it's not gone forever. Issues can be reopened if there is renewed community interest. Just add a comment to notify the maintainers.

[polmonso]

Since dbt best practices recommends this layering, it would be very useful to see it in the docs. I'd love to re-open this feature request.