A realization link indicates that the target
unit is the specific representation of the characteristics described
by the source unit.
For example, you might create a general
unit to describe (in an abstract manner) a component of an application.
When preparing to deploy the application, you could create a more
specific unit representing an actual software component as the realization
of the more abstract unit. Typically, realization links are created
from conceptual units to non-conceptual units.
About this task
You can create a realization link between two units in
any of the following ways, but only if the target unit is a valid
realization for the source unit, as described in Rules for realization links.
- Drag the realization link handle from the source unit to the target unit, or drag the realization link handle to an empty place on the diagram to search the topology for targets.
- Select Realization Link from the Palette and drag the link from the source unit to the target unit.
- On the error or warning that states that the unit is unrealized, use the resolution to automatically create a realization link.
You can also open the realization assistant to search the topology for an appropriate realization target. This wizard takes a variety of factors into account to suggest appropriate targets.
Procedure
- Select the error, warning, or informational message that indicates that the unit requires realization and then select the resolution labeled Open Realization Assistant.
- In the Realization Assistant window, select the source unit under Conceptual Unit. The Target field shows potential targets of a realization link from the source unit.
- If you want to show units to which a realization link is invalid, select Include invalid realizations. If you create a link to one of these units, the link will contain one or more errors.
- If you want to show other unrealized units as potential link targets, click Concrete or unrealized. By default, the Target field shows only concrete units.
- When the link you want to create is shown in the table at the bottom of the window, click Realize.
Example
