Prev Next

Create a Data Model Diagram

To model the structure of a relational database you use Data Modeling diagrams, which are extended Class diagrams. When you open a Data Modeling diagram the matching Diagram Toolbox is automatically opened, which contains the diagram elements:

  • Table
  • View
  • Procedure
  • Sequence
  • Function
  • Association and
  • Database Connection

Access

Display the 'New Diagram' dialog using any of the methods outlined here.

Ribbon

Design > Diagram > Insert

Context Menu

Right-click on Package | Add Diagram

Right-click on element | Add | Add Diagram

Keyboard Shortcuts

Ctrl+Insert

Other

Project Browser caption bar menu | New Diagram

Create a Data Modeling diagram

Field/Button

Action

See also

Package

Defaults to the name of the Package selected in the Project Browser or, if the parent is an element, the name of the Package containing that element.

If you are adding a diagram directly to a Package and notice that it is not the correct Package, click on the button and browse for the correct Package.

Parent

If you are adding a diagram to an element, this field displays the element name.

Diagram

This field defaults to the name of the parent Package or element.

If required, overtype the default name with your preferred name.

Select From

Click on this header and select the Perspective Group and Perspective or Workspace most appropriate to the area you are working in (in this instance, 'Information Engineering > Database Models').

From the options listed in the panel, click on 'Extended'.

Add New Diagrams

Diagram Types

Click on 'Data Modeling'.

OK

Click on this button to create the diagram.

The Diagram View displays the blank diagram, and the 'Data Modeling' pages display in the Diagram Toolbox.

Drag elements and connectors from the Toolbox onto your diagram, to create your data model.

Data Modeling Toolbox

Notes

  • The default diagram connector notation for all new diagrams is Information Engineering, although many data modelers prefer the notation IDEF1X; to make this change select 'Design > Diagram > Edit > Properties > Connectors' and click on the required option in the 'Connector Notation' drop-down list

Learn more