Creating New Meta Models


Creating a Meta Model essentially defines a new set of rules that may be used by a Notation.

Each new Meta Model created is stored as individual files in text format. The extension for a Cohesion Meta Model file is .CMM.

To create a new model rule set, perform the following steps:

  1. From the "Language" Menu, select "New Meta Model".
  2. A simple dialog titled "Meta Model Builder" will pop up. The name of the new meta model should be specified in this dialog. 
    Note: The name you enter here is just a name for the Meta Model rule set. You can define a name for the file itself at Step 5.

    There is no restriction on the characters in use, nor on the number of characters. However, for sensibility's sake, the name of Meta Model should be a brief title no more than 20 characters. 

  3. Once the name of the rule set is defined, the following dialog will appear:

    This Meta Model Builder dialog is where the name of the Nodes, Arcs and Rules, as well as their properties, can be defined.
    For a more detailed description of how to change settings relating to Nodes, Arcs and Rules, please refer to the appropriate sections below, titled The Meta Model Builder Dialog.
  4. After defining your rule set for the new meta model, press OK.
  5. A final dialog will appear, prompting the user where to store the new metamodel. The limit on characters and characters used for filenames is dependent on the Operating System in use. Refer to your Operating System's documentation for details on the filename limitations.

Once the rule-set for the Meta Model is created, a new Notation can be created by performing the steps outlined in the Creating New Notations section.