Adding entities and attributes


Adding entities to the data model

An entity is a representation of any abstract or concrete object of interest to the organization and whose characteristics are described by attributes.

When you create an entity, Open ModelSphere automatically assigns the default name Entity. To avoid confusion as the data model becomes more complex, it is highly recommended to name entities as early as possible after the creation. To do so, use the graphic editing function of an entity’s contents.

To create an entity:
  1. Select the entity creation tool from the creation toolbar and then click the desired location in the diagram window.
  2. Double-click the entity’s name, highlight it, change it and press Enter.
  3. Create and name entities as in the following diagram.


You can create several entities without having to click the Entity tool each time. Simply double-click the tool to make it a permanent selection. Once you have finished, double-click the pointer tool.

You can change the entity’s name and add information in the entity properties window. Right-click the entity and choose Properties.




Adding attributes to the entity

An attribute describes an entity’s characteristic.

An attribute typically holds, at most, one value. Every entity must contain at least one attribute. Open ModelSphere offers a graphic editing function that lets you add attributes directly in the graphical representation of an entity. When you create an attribute, Open ModelSphere automatically assigns the default name Attribute.
  1. Right-click the entity, either in the explorer or diagram window, and choose Add Attribute from the menu. A second part will be added to the entity.



    To add attributes repetitively, highlight the attribute name in the diagram, and press CTRL and ENTER simultaneously.

  2. Double-click the attribute name, highlight it, change it and press Enter.
  3. Add other attributes in the same way. Once you are done, the diagram window should resemble the following:

You can also modify or delete an attribute using ModelSphere’s graphic editing function. To delete an attribute, right-click it and choose Delete from the pop-up menu. Or, select the object you want to delete and click the delete tool from the Edit toolbar.