Creating a New Framework

To create a new framework:

1 Create and save a model with the contents of the framework in any folder. That model will be used as the template when creating new models from this framework.

2 Write a description of the framework in any word processor and save the document in RTF (Rich Text Format) format in any folder.

3 Use a drawing tool to create an icon that symbolizes the new framework. Save the icon as an .ico file in any folder (or, look for a suitable existing .ico file).

4 Click File > New.

The Create New Model dialog box opens.

5 Open the "Make New Framework" framework, which starts the Framework Wizard. (If the welcome page appears, click Next.)

Figure 99 Framework Wizard Specification Page

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6 In the Framework Name field, specify the name of the new framework. The name must be unique among the existing frameworks, and it can only contain characters that are allowed in folder names.

7 In the Model File field, specify the name and location of the file that constitutes the framework model. (To browse to the file, click in the field. Then, click the displayed button.)

8 Click in the Start Diagram field to specify a diagram that is to be initially opened for models created from this framework. The specified model opens. Click the arrow to the right of the Start Diagram field and select one of the diagrams.

9 Specify the name and location of the documentation and icon files in the Documentation File and Icon File fields. (To browse to a file, click in the field. Then click the displayed button.)

10 Click Next.

A summary of the new framework appears.

Figure 100 Framework Wizard Summary Page

11 If you are satisfied with the framework specification, click Finish. Otherwise, go back and change your settings.

When the Framework Wizard is finished, a folder with the same name as the new framework, containing the specified files, will be created in the \Framework\Frameworks folder. The new framework is now available for creating new models.