Sparx Systems Forum

Enterprise Architect => Suggestions and Requests => Topic started by: lipmanc on August 28, 2009, 10:53:12 pm

Title: Same Element Multiple Times on Same Diagram
Post by: lipmanc on August 28, 2009, 10:53:12 pm

There are many situations where it is necessary (especially as a best practice in modeling BPMN, which is allegedly supported by EA) to show the same element on the same diagram multiple times. (See BPMN 1.1 Section 9.4.2.3.) As an example, when two organizations (each represented in its own pool or swimlane on the same diagram) perform the same Activity.

I understand that the one-element/diagram limitation may be an EA architectural constraint that may be a major undertaking to change. I wonder if a simpler approach might be to support the creation of ghost or clone elements (or use another descriptive name) whereby a new/unique element is created that is somehow linked with the original element (such that it is possible to quickly get to the original element to make global changes and it is also easy to see all of the instances where an element's clone is used across diagrams).

Personally, I feel deceived when I spend months (hundreds of hours) using and becoming invested in a product and then discover a fundamental flaw in a allegedly supported specification.  9.4.2 of BPMN 1.1 specifically addresses reusable Sub-Processes.  (I realize that BPMN's Reusable Sub-Process specification might be supported by EA in ways that I have not yet figured out and welcome feedback from anyone with a solution/insights.)

Craig

Title: Re: Same Element Multiple Times on Same Diagram
Post by: Geert Bellekens on August 28, 2009, 11:23:57 pm

Vote (again)
Next to BPMN, there is nothing in the UML specs (as far as I know) that prevents from showing an element twice on a diagram.

PS. Make sure that you make an official request and mention this topic in it.

Geert

Title: Re: Same Element Multiple Times on Same Diagram
Post by: lipmanc on August 28, 2009, 11:44:08 pm

What would an "official request" look like?

Title: Re: Same Element Multiple Times on Same Diagram
Post by: Geert Bellekens on August 28, 2009, 11:53:45 pm

use the link on the bottom of the page and then just write what you wrote in the topic. Just make sure to add a link to the forum topic so the Sparxians can see just how many users are craving for this feature.