When you are creating a meta model in SystemWeaver, you are actually creating a solution. You are building a concrete model (using Item Types, Part Types and Attribute Types) which is different from creating an architectural or conceptual model. This article provides an introduction to meta modeling in SystemWeaver for SW Architects. 


Prerequisites


What is a Meta Model?

The meta model in SystemWeaver defines the language and processes from which to form a model. The meta model you create as a SW Architect is directly reflected in SystemWeaver.  Items, Attributes, Parts and Nodes are the basic building blocks in SystemWeaver. These building blocks are abstract and general in purpose and are always sub-typed in the meta model into types that are meaningful for a specific model or documentation purpose. The building blocks are classified according to the core meta meta model of SystemWeaver.


The basic meta modelling features of SystemWeaver are shown below. 

Meta Model Entities - Simplified

Where Meta Modelling is Done

Now that you have been introduced to meta modelling in SystemWeaver, you can move on to learn about how to create your meta models. Meta modelling is done using the swArchitect client. In the swArchitect, the functionality provided on the Metadata, Attributes and Refactorings tabs is used to complete meta modelling tasks. 


The Metadata tab is where you create and modify Object types, like Item Type and Part type.

The Attributes tab is where you create Attribute types useful for data entry that is more controlled as opposed to full text.

The Refactorings tab provides tools for executing structural changes to your data. 



To start creating a meta model, you typically start off on the Metadata tab with creating Item Types and Part Types. 

Item types are used to create items in models and Part types connect item types together in various relations in accordance with your meta model. 


Viewing Item Type Information

In your role as SystemWeaver Architect, any time you need to get an overview of the meta model for a selected item, there are different options available to you. 


Item Type Definition

You can view the item type or part type definition in the swArchitect by selecting the type and viewing the available definition information.



Helpful Views in swExplorer

There are also views in the swExplorer that can display type information:

What's Next?

Learn how to create an Item type or review other articles in Configuring Meta Models.