Chapter 4 Models

Model Templates

A model template is a shell model that contains a set of model options, display preferences, extensions, and/or objects, which you can reuse in multiple models of the same type. For example, a BPM model template can be used to create other BPMs, but not an OOM or PDM. Model templates are stored in the model templates directory, which is, by default, the PowerDesigner installation directory.

You can make any model available as a model template by saving it to the model templates directory. Alternatively, you can manage your model templates from the New dialog box Template tab. To access this tab, select File→New, or click the New tool to open the New dialog box, and then select the New model from template radio button.

This tab lists the model templates that are available for the type of model selected in the Model type list

The following tools are available on this tab:

Tool	Description
	Copy Model as Model Template – opens a selection box, which allows you to select one or more models as model templates, and which copies them to the model templates folder.
	Change Model Templates Folder – opens an explorer dialog, which allows you to browse to and select a folder for use as the model templates folder.

Creating a model from a model template

To create a model from a model template:

Select File→New, or click the New tool to open the New dialog box.

Select the New model from template radio button.

Select a template from the list and then click OK.

The new model is created with the options, preferences, extensions, and objects specified in the template.