Is there an app that will let me produce a tree view of documents similar to the one that PearlTrees.com does for websites?
In fact, I’d like to create and control a tree view similar to the one on PearlTrees.com where I can define multiple attributes for each node, multiple views of each tree, and all without having to do any coding.
If I have to code to get that view – I’m willing to – what language and tools would make that easiest ?
You can do it in Microsoft Visio or any other diagramming tools, if I understand you correctly. Just add a file link (URL) to any node on your document. Then you have a document tree you wanted.
I think what your explaining is what is called mind mapping. if you are familiar with Drupal there is a nice module for Drupal 7 called graphmind http://graphmind.com/demo/family-budget if your looking for something to build on a csm platform.
here are some free mind maping applications and webservices some of them have free version and pay or premium versions.
Bubbl.us ..its free and web based has a pay version.
https://bubbl.us/
Freemind ..software crossplatform done in java, seems to be popular. download GNU license.
http://sourceforge.net/projects/freemind/
Labyrinth .. linux and windows based.
http://people.gnome.org/~dscorgie/labyrinth.html
Mind42 ..free web app with a nice interface.
http://mind42.com/
MindMeister ..web app with several account options well designed and nice interface.
http://www.mindmeister.com/
Mindomo .. web app has several act options allows sharing and embeding on webpages.
http://www.mindomo.com/
Personal Brain changed their name to TheBrain ..has a lite free version.
http://www.thebrain.com/
Recallplus .. has a free version. more for students and learning has a flashcard mode.
http://www.recallplus.com/index.php
Semantik ..linux app.
http://code.google.com/p/semantik/
VYM view your mind... more for mac and linux... windows might have some bugs
http://sourceforge.net/projects/vym/
WiseMapping ..web app visual thinking evolution free and unlimited.
http://www.wisemapping.com/
hope you find something of use in these.
Can you explain a little more what you want?
Why not take PearlTrees?
An app for which OS?
You wanna see documents and files? or data?
I don't think I fully understand your question, but I might give you a clue!
I use a software called Total Commander to explore throught computer folder in a tree view. Probably you have to take a look at it, so maybe it's what you are looking for!
http://www.ghisler.com/download.htm