Model Editor

The Model Editor is a tool for customizing application user interfaces such as the ArchiFM UI.

We have primarily developed the Model Editor for our partners who are involved in the deployment and long term support of ArchiFM v2.0 systems themselves.

It can be used for:

• modifying user interface elements such as objects, properties, labeling
• modifying the layout of the elements on the screen
• perform automated value calculations

• formatting the elements
• setting validation rules
• define language versions of the ArchiFM application
• do list filtering and property value filtering

The Application Model

The DevExpress XAF (eXpressAppFramework) has two main functions. One is the automatic build-up of the user interface. The other function is to create applications on different platforms using the same business logic. This means that the application user interface (visual elements) is automatically generated by XAF based on the classes created and other declared special class types. In other words, the XAF checks the application code, takes the necessary classes from the code, analyzes them, and builds up a database structure and user interface on that basis. The result of the class declaration reading is the creation of the metadata. This will define the database structure and the application functionality, in a form that can be used on any platform.

These metadata are called the Application Model. It is a powerful tool that allows you to customize the application during the design phase and also in runtime.

When running a WinForms, ASP.NET, or mobile application, the Application Model creates the items to be displayed on the user interface. For example, when the framework creates a grid, it uses the Application Model to display the list of objects of the defined type, and gives information about the visibility, location, names of the properties and other settings.

The Application Model contains all the data classes, controllers, actions, property editors, and other elements that define or affect the application functionality.

How to use the Model Editor?

Installation

To use a standalone Model Editor, you need to install the application’s installation package on to the application’s server you want to modify.

Build-up

The Application Model has a tree structure. The main nodes are:

• Action Design (action buttons)
• BO Model (Business Object Model elements: ArchiFM Objects and parameters)
• Creatable Items (not used for ArchiFM customization)
• Image Sources (Images on the UI)
• Localization (language versions)
• Navigation Items (Menus)
• Options (General settings)

• Validation (All applied validation rules in the project)
• View Items
• Views (List View, Detail View, Look up List View definitions)

Customization

The customization settings can be performed on the parameter sheets that appear according to the selected node in the tree.

Display modifications on the user interface

When the customization is done you will have to restart the application in the IIS and reload the website. The modifications will be displayed on the interface right away.

User Guide

Customization guide with ArchiFM customization examples is available for Model Editor users.

Training

A 2 x 3 hour ArchiFM-specific Model Editor training is conducted for partners.