Create elements not based on a template

Although you can create elements that are not based on a template, it is strongly recommended to base your elements on templates to take advantage of powerful template-based features available in client applications. You can use the Convert to Template feature, as described in Convert elements to element templates.

1. In the Elements browser, right-click the collection of elements or an individual element and click New Element.

2. In the Choose Element Template window, select a reference type in the Add child element using the reference type field.

   The available reference types depend on the element template and what reference types are defined in the database. If you are not sure what reference type to use, you probably want the default reference type, parent-child.

3. In the Element Template field, click <None>.

4. Click OK.

   Property tabs for the new element are displayed in the viewer.

   • Use the General tab to perform the basic element configuration.

   • The Child Elements tab is mainly used to view existing child elements on an existing element. You can optionally create new child elements directly from this tab.

   • Use the Attributes tab to create an attribute for each property or data item.

   • Use the Ports tab only if you are modeling a process.

   • Use the Analyses tab to select an analysis for the element.

   • Use the Notification Rules tab to select a notification rule for the element.

   • Use the Version tab to add version information for the element.

5. Optional. Perform the following actions as needed.

   • Click the Extended Properties link to create properties for client applications such as PI WebParts. For more information, see Storage of application-specific information.

   • Click the Annotations link to enter a note for the element. For more information, see Element annotations.

   • Click the Security link to set up custom access permissions for the element. For more information, see PI AF object security.

6. To save your work, press CTRL-S or click Check In.