Abstract. This paper is an informal summary of different encoding techniques from process calculi and distributed formalisms to graphic frameworks. The survey includes the use of solo diagrams, term graphs, synchronized hyperedge replacement systems, bigraphs, tile models and interactive systems, all presented at the Dagstuhl Seminar 04241. The common theme of all techniques recalled here is having a graphic presentation that, at the same time, gives both an intuitive visual rendering (of processes, states, etc.) and a rigorous mathematical framework. 1