Modeling 101: Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get started?

All users begin with their own Personal Domain. The good news is that nobody else can access this domain unless you invite them to it. This means you can't get into trouble (or cause anyone stress) when you first start using Process Tempo. Think of a Personal Domain as your sandbox to play in. What's a domain? We answer that next.

What is a domain?

A domain is how we group data and content for access purposes. Only users who are invited to a domain can access any of the data or models it contains.

What is a model?

A model is a visual representation of data usually focused on a specific topic. Think of it as a lens into a part of your business. An example of a model could be an org chart. Models are made up of Concepts connected by Relationships. A concept is often a person, place, thing or idea. A relationship describes how a given concept is connected with another. Bob reports to Sally could be an example of two concepts and a relationship that could be found in an org chart model.

How should I organize my models and folders?

Once you have begun creating content, it may make sense to organize it. The folder menu allows you to structure the content into groups or categories. How you create this structure is up to you.

The Northwind example may provide you with some ideas on how to organize your content. In this example, the Information Technology Group is interested in using Process Tempo to document the impact of the CRM Upgrade Project so they have created folders and models specific to this project. In addition, there are groupings of models for Users and Roles, Systems and for Uploaded Content (to name a few).

Keep in mind, the folder structure is unique to the current domain. Each domain has its own structure. Also remember, that your changes can be seen by anyone else who has access to that domain.

Which type of model catalog should I use Blueprint or Concept?

Concept catalogs are used to capture concepts or ideas. They are free-form in that they carry no restrictions. Think of models built with Concept catalogs as mind maps or knowledge maps.

Business catalogs on the other hand are used to capture content that is very specific in nature. When a user creates a model with a business catalog they are sharing facts, not ideas. Business catalogs force users to use specific categories versus generic colors. Also, users must choose from a list of available options when creating relationships between concepts. These restrictions help to create and maintain consistency.

I have created a model, how do I add content?

This is easy. Using the menu of available categories on the left-hand side select a category by holding down the left mouse button. Then drag this category on to the model palette. After releasing the mouse the "Add Concept" form should appear. Give your new concept a unique name and click Save to add your new Concept to the model.

I have created two Concepts, how do I add a relationship?

Hold your left-mouse button down while hovering over a Concept. You will see the arrowhead appear. Keep the mouse button down and move the mouse so that its over the target Concept. Releasing the mouse will cause the Add Relationship form to appear. You must type in or select an existing Relationship before clicking Save to create a Relationship.

The Relationship I want doesn't exist. How do I add a new one?

The option to create a new Relationship is only available when creating Relationships in a model that uses a Concept catalog. In these models, users are free to add any type of relationship. This feature is restricted in models that use a Business catalog.

Can I switch catalogs after I created a model?

No. Once you create a model you cannot change its catalog.

How can I change the list of concept categories and relationships to fit my needs?

Today, this requires professional support but in the future the ability to tailor the available concept categories and relationship types will be accessible to users who have an Administration role.