Flint
A visualization language for agents and an MCP server: neat charts from a simple semantic spec
Medium risk
We rate an entry medium when the tool runs code, makes network calls or reads project files. Check what exactly it does before installing.
Why this level
- Sends chart data to an MCP server, including a remote one
- Runs a local server and generates files
Install
Manual install
npx -y flint-chart-mcpRuns a local MCP server, recommended for large data.
This is third-party code. Review the repository files before installing.
What it does
Flint is an intermediate visualization language that lets an agent describe a chart with a compact semantic spec instead of hand-writing axes, scales, spacing and labels. The flint-chart library compiles one spec into Vega-Lite, ECharts, Chart.js, Plotly or native Excel charts. The flint-chart-mcp server lets an agent create, validate and render charts directly from a chat or coding environment. It ships visual themes in the spirit of well-known publications and business styles.
Who it is for. For data analysts, developers and anyone whose agent builds clear charts from data.
Good fit when
- You need a clean chart from data built by the agent
- You need one spec across several visualization libraries
- You need charts in a recognizable visual style or for Excel
Not a fit when
- You need an interactive BI dashboard rather than standalone charts
- Simple built-in charting is enough
- Data cannot go to a remote MCP server and a local one is not set up
Example request
Build a chart of revenue by quarter in a business-publication styleLimitations
For large datasets a local MCP server is recommended over the remote one. Output quality depends on how precisely field semantics are described. The library and server install via npm.
How to disable. Remove flint-chart-mcp from the client MCP config; for the local package remove it via npm.
MCP
- Transport
- http, stdio
- Authentication
- not required
Security check
- Sends chart data to an MCP server, including a remote one
- Runs a local server and generates files
README in short
Flint from Microsoft is a visualization language for the agent era, with the flint-chart library and the flint-chart-mcp server. An agent describes a chart with a semantic spec, and Flint derives scales, layout and labels and compiles output into several formats, including Excel charts. A hosted HTTP MCP server and a local npx run are available. It ships visual themes and a detailed MCP guide. MIT licensed.
FAQ
Can I skip installation?
Yes, there is a hosted HTTP MCP server that clients such as GitHub Copilot in VS Code and Claude can connect to.
Which output formats are supported?
Vega-Lite, ECharts, Chart.js, Plotly and native Excel charts.
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