Messages

1

Suggestions and Requests / Re: SQL UPDATE Capability

« on: May 08, 2009, 10:07:04 pm »

Dermot,

Thanks for the comment.  Does this method provide mass update/status change or do I still have to open each element (requirement in this scenario) and make the change?  I'm looking for a class action as opposed to many individual actions to obtain the results.

Again I feel strongly that since this product is built on top of a relational database, these types of actions (selective mass updates, modifications and changes) should be accessible to super users or high end, properly trained users.  I'm OK with a capability through a UI, but it needs to be "selective", similar to the capability currently in the search window.  Let me search and then selectively update the search results.

I understand the balance between functionality and potential risks caused by unmanaged change.  Please accept this input as it is intended....a recommendation/suggestion from a user.

  

2

Suggestions and Requests / Re: SQL UPDATE Capability

« on: May 08, 2009, 12:06:38 pm »

Thomas,

Thanks for the input.  So looking at the limited documentation, if a field is restricted to read only, an update SQL query probably won't function...correct?  I'm guessing there are some overrides available to administrator roles, yes?

Thanks Dermont.  My challenge is the selective update.  During the course of a project not all requirement elements will change status i.e. some will move from proposed to approved while others may take on the status of deferred or rejected.  If I require selective update, does your proposal respond to that scenario?

Geert.  I agree that to err on the side of preserving the model integrity is appropriate.  So I too would advocate a less risky method to provide the update capability....but in a pinch, I gotta get some work done.  My guess is that update SQL queries may be restricted by role.  Thoughts?

Thank you all for the input. [smiley=beer.gif]

cincykid

3

Suggestions and Requests / SQL UPDATE Capability

« on: May 06, 2009, 11:06:05 am »

I think it would be helpful if the tool provided a method for selected mass update i.e. element attributes modified as the results of action taken by/within a project.

To wit, during an incremental lifecycle phase, requirements change status and phase by virtue of decisions taken (work completed).  Assuming a large project, requirements (business, functional, non-functional) would change status and phase....from proposed to approved and from definition to build, respectively.  Since I already have a SQL editor, wouldn't it make sense to provide a capability to use the SQL UPDATE procedure to first select and then update the requirements (assuming the correct SQL parameters).

This capability seems to make sense and could perhaps be supported in the search capability as opposed to native SQL.  Please give this some thought - as a productivity enhancement for many user roles for the tool - especially business analysts and systems analysts.

4

Bugs and Issues / Re: Export / import CSV file - hierachy lost

« on: May 03, 2009, 01:08:36 am »

I too encountered this issue with V7.5.  It has been identified to Sparx and the Issue ID is 09042561.  No response from Sparx regarding the patch release to correct this issue.  It is being actively worked by Sparx as evidenced by the latest email reply:

[highlight]Hello Bob,

Thanks for your email regarding CSV import not preserving an element hierarchy. I have managed to track down the source of this issue and am currently working to rectify it.

Best Regards,
 
<Name Removed>
Sparx Systems Pty Ltd
[email protected][/highlight]

I am hopeful for the next patch on V7.5 sometime this month.

cincykid

5

Uml Process / Re: BPMN best practices

« on: April 19, 2009, 07:37:02 am »

At my company we are using BPMN to construct an Enterprise Business Process Model derived from APQC PCF.  Since business processes are performed laterally through the organization and require multiple system resources (apps, database, servers and networks) in order to deliver value, we have decided to apply a system lane in our level 4 models to allow associations to actual IT service and component models.

The system lane allows the IT development and design staff to make the connection between the lower level business processes and deployment models.  Since we are working with a mixed bag of legacy systems and some new development, this seems to work OK.  I'm excited to work with the new BPEL BPMN in 7.5.  This should go a long way to making the connection between business processes and executable components.

Not an easy task here and I would offer a suggestion to ensure the business modelers, the business analysts and IT designers are all highly proficient at their respective modeling domain.  Ensure roles are defined and artifacts/deliverables are specified and validated during concept and design.  Do it right and the build/test phases are a piece of cake; do it wrong and your just "kicking the can further down the road".

The BPMN profile can be found in the Sparx directory on your server/desktop.  Depending up the version, you may or may not have direct access to modify...depends on your administrative credentials.