Auto-Arrange of Diagrams

[bmains]

Hello,

Is there the ability to auto-arrange a diagram within Enterprise Architect?  I have a huge database diagram, and it would be helpful to be able to auto-arrange it into a more meaningful layout.

Thanks.

[«Midnight»]

Look up Layout in help, and go from there.

First, however make a backup. You need to get an idea of how EA does layout before you will be comfortable with the process.

There are quite a few options that affect - to a greater or lesser extent - how EA does this layout. The actual effect of each option is not well documented, but you can play around with them to get an idea of what works for you. You'll find the necessary information to locate these when you look up Layout in the help file.

HTH, David

[thomaskilian]

You can use Ctrl-Z to undo an auto-layout.

[PogPower]

It is true that the feature is not really well documented.

Is there someone that can explain all the options available.  I've played with all of them and I'm not able to get the logic.

Thank,

[thomaskilian]

I'm afraid you need your instinct. You can additionally select a bunch of elements and Layout Selected from the context menu. However, starting from a certain complexity you will need human intelligence. Or you write a clever add-in (I wrote one for layout with Ports which are not respected by auto-layout).

[Babysittah]

 ;DHuman intelligence 4 sho yo!

[thomaskilian]

I just changed the spacing parameters for the auto-layout. If the diagram does not show any relations, the parameters are ignored. Bug report sent.