[layers within diagram]

[gkathan]

hi,
i was a long time wondering why noone is thinking about introducing a capability that allows to create different layers within a diagram which can be individually made e.g. visible / invisible. If someone knows e.g. the layer concept in photoshop - i mean exactly this concept.
* associating elements within a diagram to one layer
* possibility to switch visibility of a layer
* possibility to create / remove a layer
* possibility to collapse (flatten) multiple layers to one layer

i assume this could be a big-effort but to my mind exremely helpful feature.

any opinions on that ?
greetz from vienna,
gerold

[thomaskilian]

I think it is simply for the reason that you have no 3 but only 2 dimensions on your printout. In order to have a meaningful layout all visible elements need to be arranged in a way that a reader can understand. Layers would not help much. What would be helpful is a tool to group elements once they are layed out. So you can move a complete block easily.

[gkathan]

* for printout reasons you are right - but i am thinking on a during construction on the screen it would be very helpful
* also iamgine the usecase when you have a diagram which you show to someone
** first you only see the basic/constituent elements (layer 1)
** then you switch on the layer 2 which shows the note elements
** then you just switch off layer 2 and switch on layer 3 which e.g. shows some details in a special area of the diagramm

and so on ...

[sargasso]

Alack, alas there is but one dimension in EA, that of the classifer.  In fact in UML there is only one dimension, that of the diagram plane.  What you propose is laudible and proper.  

However, I would rather we get the basic, fundamental, intrinsic, confusing, (AHEM) inconsistent flaws that exist in the current one dimension (AHEM) fixed before we embark on creating an entire new set of dimensional inconsistencies that have not even yet been dreamed of in the Sparxians philosophies.

..nuff said..
going to see if the lecky blanky has engaged itself on this  plain and cold winter solstice here in the antipodes.

bruce


side note: TK - I think you are on the wrong tack re "provided" v "required" as opposed to "realised" interfaces, I hope to get some time over the weekend to reply --- I cant find your OP and by golly, by crickey, its about -217K here  

[thomaskilian]

Very much appreciated It's sooo hot and damp here -> here