Diagram "key"

[Whil]

Hi Forum and members,

Is there a way in Enterprise Architect to include a "key" in a diagram? By "key" I mean a sort of legend, but used to explain the type of object or relation.

As an example, let's say I want to draw a simple UML class diagram with two classes and a "generalize" arrow connecting them. In the diagram I want to include a "key" showing (1) the visual of the arrow with an explanation saying "Generalization" and (2) the visual of a class-box with the explanation saying "class".

Is that doable?

Best regards
Gustav

[Geert Bellekens]

Yes, using custom images.

But really you shouldn't. Generalizations and classes are part of the UML standard and they should be known by your audience.

Geert

[Whil]

Ok, thanks Geert.

I'd argue the value of the key anyways though. Maybe not as much for UML-diagrams since each specific visual has a certain pre-defined meaning. But one shouldn't assume to much from the audience. Giving a key will only make it clearer - even though some might think it superfluous.

A key would simplify the creation of informal models and diagrams using EA too, imo.

BR
Gustav

[Glassboy]

Well, you could always create a diagram called "key" or "legend", and include it on your diagram as a diagram frame.

[Uffe]

Here's an idea:

• Open a diagram of whatever type you're interested in and undock the diagram toolbox. Switch on all labels.
• Take a dump of the toolbox window using your favourite screen dump tool (Greenshot, Snagit, etc).
• Import the image into the EA project's image library.
• Paste the image into those diagrams you want non-modellers to be able to read.

Of course, the toolbox doesn't cover all possible element and connector types you might show in a diagram, but if you're dealing with people who can't read diagrams in the first place you should keep the number of element / connector types down anyway. The less you can expect from the audience, the more careful you have to be as an author.

/Uffe

[qwerty]

Here's another idea: get a training for the people that are going to read the diagrams. Without knowing what a connector/element means, a legend is of not much help.

q.

[Whil]

Thanks for the creativity guys.

Making a key using an imported image seems like the current way to go. "Hack it" that is.

Regards