Modeling with Function Point Modeler

You can use diagrams to visualize and edit objects that are contained in Function Point Modeler projects. Function Point diagrams are a view representation of an underlying Function Point model. You can add notes or text objects to the diagram to document information about model objects or relationships. You can also add geometric shapes to the diagram that contain text or that visually group diagram objects together. You can modify the display characteristics of the diagram by changing font or color options, or by changing diagram properties in the Properties view. All of these options change the diagram properties, but do not modify the underlying Function Point model. You can also save image files of diagrams for archival or presentation purposes.

The Data area of the palette contains Function Point model objects. When you add or modify Function Point model objects by using the palette or the diagram surface, you modify the underlying Function Point model. Changes that you make to data objects in a diagram are automatically saved to the diagram, but you must explicitly save the model file to save the changes to the model.

In the Properties view in the Function Point Model perspective, you can view and modify the properties of Function Point model objects. Typically, you use the diagram editor and the Properties view together to modify Function Point model objects. When an object is highlighted in either a diagram or the Project Explorer, the Properties view changes to show the properties of that object.