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New Default Schemas

The structure of each Cradle database is defined in a schema. Cradle is supplied with four default schemas that you can use. You can create new default schemas. You can initialise your new Cradle database using any of your default schemas.

Default Schemas

A Cradle system can contain any number of databases. Each database can be used for one or more projects. Each database has a structure that is defined in a schema.

When you create a new database, you specify a default schema that will be used to initialise the schema in the new database  Cradle is supplied with four default schemas, called: empty, default, quick-start and SysML. 3SL provides documents that explain the contents of these default schemas.

New Default Schemas

Cradle can support any process for any type of project. The schema defines the types of information that you will need to follow your process.

You can create new default schemas to support any type of process for any type of project. For example, look at the following types of projects and lists of the item types that will be included in their schemas:

  1. Agile projects:
    • Sprint, iteration
    • Feature
    • Build and release
    • Test cases, test results
  2. Business Analysis projects:
    • Needs, goals, objectives
    • Business functions, processes, tasks
    • Organisations, groups, teams
    • Deliverables, reports  and other document types, artefacts, builds
    • Personnel types, skills, roles
  3. Enterprise Architecture projects:
    • Needs, goals, objectives
    • Processes, functions, tasks
    • Resources, systems, buildings and other facilities, area breakdown structure, site breakdown structure
    • Delivery phases, releases and builds
    • Organisations, groups, teams
    • Deliverables, reports  and other document types, artefacts, builds
    • Personnel types, skills, roles, organisation breakdown structure
  4. Requirements Management projects:
    • Needs, goals, objectives
    • Business requirements, user requirements, system requirements
    • Validations and verifications
  5. Application lifecycle management projects:
    • Needs, goals, objectives
    • Business requirements, user requirements, system requirements
    • Validations and verifications
    • Analysis models, logical models, architecture models, design models – built using MBSE using one or more of functional analysis, SASD, IDEF, ADARTS, UML and/or SysML notations
    • System breakdown structure (SBS)
    • Test cases and test results
  6. Project Management projects:
    • Needs, goals, objectives
    • Business requirements, user requirements, system requirements
    • Product requirements, managed in a library
    • Validations and verifications
    • System breakdown structure (SBS)
    • Product breakdown structure (PBS)
    • Part catalogue, suppliers, orders
    • Production schedules, production runs, batches, samples
    • Quality records, test cases, samples, test results

Location and Structure of Default Schemas

Each default schema is stored in the sub-directory:

admin/defaults

inside the Cradle installation on the server.

Inside this directory are:

  • A file called: prj_params that contains the schema
  • A directory tree containing the project-scope definitions, such as queries, views, forms and so on, called: definitions

Creating New Default Schemas

You can create your own default schemas by:

  • Decide on a name for your new default
  • Create a new directory with this name inside the admin/defaults directory in the Cradle installation on your server
  • Place the schema for the new default inside this directory in a file called: prj_params – you can copy the prj_params file from inside the database directory of an existing database, or use Cradle’s export to create it (see below)
  • Optionally copy some or all of the Project scope definitions from the definitions directory in an existing database

Export to Create a New Default Schema

You can export the schema using the Export Information dialog that is shon when you select Export from the Project tab in WorkBench.

If you can run WorkBench on the server, then you can export the schema directly into the new defaults directory:

Export to Create New Default Schemas
How to to Create a New Default Schema

Using Your New Default Schemas

When you create a new database in Project Manager, select the Schema drop-down list. This will display the list of default schemas. Any new schemas that you have created will appear in this list, for example:

Create Project dialog showing available schemas
Create Project dialog
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Initial Expansions in Project Sidebar

Sidebar Expansion

The project sidebar offers a ‘raw’ view of the data stored in the Cradle Database. When first opened a list of item types is displayed. If there is a [+] indicator, then you can expect to expand the tree to lower levels.

In the example below Reference item type has been set up with an auto numbered ID and the Key being the  hierarchical attribute. A rule has been defined to allow the items to be linked to items of the same type with the “RELATED TO” link type.

  • All (All Items) This will show all the items of that type (subject to the user preference limits) when the node is expanded. Other than in very sparse databases this is not usually that a user wants to show.
  • Top (Top Level Items) This is more akin to looking at the level1 headings in a document. These are the items you have designated as having the most significance. They have no links down to them links. In the example you’ll see that item REF-4 (3.1) may appear to be a sub level item, but it has not been linked to a parent.
  • Bottom (Bottom Level Items) These are the leaves of the tree, the items that have no further downward links to children.
  • Disconnected (Not Linked to Anything) These items have no parents or children,  REF-6 (3.1.2) is shown here. This indicated an item that has been unlinked or its parents have been removed and either needs re-linking or reordering below a new parent.
Expansions of the main Project tree
Tree Levels

The last Disconnected  (Not Linked to Other Item Types) option in the menu looks at item of different types when deciding to list the item or not.

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Why are there different groups of queries?

Cradle Definitions are Grouped

There are seven main groups into which Cradle definitions can be filed. These are common for each type of definition, say a view or a query.

  1. Personal – These are available to the Operating System User whichever project they are logged into – ‘Peter’ may be the ‘admin‘ on one project and the ‘design manager‘ on another but will be able to see this definition whichever he logs into. This only makes sense if the item types are the same in both or the definition is very generic showing say ID and Status, common to all.
  2. User – These are based on the Cradle User name and are available to that role name on every project. On three different projects the role QA manager may be held by three different people.  Definitions here would be available to anyone logging in as QA manager.
  3. Team – Definitions here are available to anyone in the same Cradle team on a particular project.
  4. User Type  – Users can be grouped by type within a project and this allows definitions to be shown to users of a matching type.
  5. Project – These are queries available to anyone on that particular project
  6. Automatic – Each time a new item type is added, Cradle generates a set of useful definitions to help you get started. These are idea to open tweak and ‘Save As’ to match your personal preferences. They are also useful if you want to write a phase or reference a view in a query as these standard definitions will exist without you having to create them.
  7. System – Some hard wired definitions covering the minimum shipped functionality in Cradle.
Query Definition Groups
Query Definition Groups

To read more about definitions, see Help on Definition Files

Article updated 05/12/2018 – Cleaned up image
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July 2017 Newsletter

July is Here

Last month saw the start of the Summer and also National Sunglasses day. We still hear the odd story that engineers are using ‘Spreadsheets‘ and ‘Word-processor documents‘ to manage their requirements. We can only sympathise with their misguided ways and revel in the fact that we (and you our dear newsletter readers) have seen the light.
So the only thing you should need your rose tinted spectacles for is to eat your Cream tea while watching Wimbledon!

an eFFBD showing Cream tea making
National Cream Tea day – eFFBD

Non Graphic Interfaces

This month (July 2017 Newsletter) we’re highlighting c_io and how it can be used to complement the functionality we’re more used to in WorkBench and Web Access.

c_io

Using c_io.exe in a batch file means you can do many things whilst you are away from your desk or in the background while you continue to work. You can then add this batch file to be run by a task application during times you are away from your desk or work. This can be handy when needing to do backups of a single or many large databases.

The executable can import and export everything in a project from single items to the whole project. It can use queries or different options to whittle down the required export. So a user can export all items of a specific type or just one to several items based on a query and or other set options.

Export Options for c_io.exe
Export Options for c_io.exe

For the full article set please see Mikki’s guide How to Use c_io.exe in a Batch File

Social Media

Twitter

We continue to welcome new followers each month and would encourage any Cradle users who would like regular ‘Hints & Tips’ to follow us @threesl

Reviews

Thanks to those who responded adding reviews of Cradle to Capterra. If you have not yet and are able to add a few words, please reply using  Yes I’m happy to consider writing a review

Hints of the Month

Here are some links to helpful topics since our last newsletter, they should improve your Cradle experience:

Controlling what can link to what is covered in Getting Started with Link Rules

Getting down to the nitty-gritty in Document Publisher with How to Make Use of User Variables in Document Publisher

Just upgraded the number or type of modules you have in Cradle, installing the new code is simple Installing a New Security Code

An FAQ about alerts is covered here How do I receive alerts via email?

You can read Hints & Tips in the 3SL Blog.

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How to Use c_io.exe in a Batch File

Why use c_io.exe?

Using c_io.exe allows a user to do many things within a project without using the interface and is usually faster.

Using c_io.exe in a batch file means you can do many things while you are actually away from your desk or in the background. You can then add this batch file to be run by a task application during times you are away from you desk or work. This can be handy when needing to do backups of a single or many large databases.

The executable can import and export everything in a project from single items to the whole project. It can use queries or different options to whittle down the required export. So a user can export all items of a specific type or just one to several items based on a query and or other set options.

The user can use also use the import to update or create a new Project schema, items, cross references and definitions.

Import and Export can use the Format Types already saved into the database.

It can also export just a single frame from a single item into a file of the right type and print diagrams to specific print types.

How to use c_io.exe

The only real difference between using a command prompt and a batch file is the user will need to have a path for the executable. At the beginning of each command line the user will need “%CRADLEHOME%\bin\exe\windows\c_io.exe”

As in commandline code, a user will require the correct login information and the project being logged into.
-login <username>,<password>,<projectcode>

For example:

-login admin.ADMIN.demo

As long as the -login user has the correct privileges, they can use c_io.

Different Options in c_io.exe

Required options are:

-export

Export Options for c_io.exe
Export Options for c_io.exe

-import

c_io import options
Import options for c_io.exe

-getframe

Options for getframe in c_io.exe
The options for getframe in c_io.exe

-printdiag

printdiag options in c_io.exe
The printdiag options in c_io.exe

Without any of the previous options, c_io.exe will put up the Information page or an error.

Helpful other c_io options

There are several helpful options especially when using in a batch file.

-log allows a user to specify a name for a log. This is the log that will have the details of the actions performed during the  import.

-noldap allows users to bypass using LDAP when running a command line or batch file.
-errorstack option is for logging any issues with the import

 

“%CRADLEHOME%\bin\exe\windows\c_io.exe” -login admin,ADMIN,demo -export “C:\Temp\all3.exp” -type all -noldap -errorstack -log “C:\Temp\all4_log.log”
“%CRADLEHOME%\bin\exe\windows\c_io.exe” -login admin,ADMIN,demo -export “C:\Temp\pdb3.exp” -type pdb -noldap -errorstack -log “C:\Temp\pdb3_log.log”

Options not used within a batch file

A few of the options are not used in a batch file but are in a command prompt. The reason is that they are only used in a command prompt is that they show pop ups with information on them.

-verbose lets the user know that c_io.exe has finished
-ver lets the user see what the version number, date and time of the build they are using.
-help is used to see all the command line options.

Batch Files from Project Phase

Batch files can be added into the Project Phases, this is done by going to “Project Setup”, and in Options selecting “Project Phases”. Inside here if you create a new Process and change the type to command, in Command navigate to your .bat file.

A screenshot showing how to setup a phase node to run a batch file
Command phase node to run batch filesArticle Updated 04/02/2019 – Added infor on running batch file from phase sidebar
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Reverse and Rewind Item Edits

What is Reverse and Rewind?

You can rewind edit histories so you can restore an item back to a state before a particular change or you can reverse a single edit in an item’s change history. This doesnt mean the feature will delete a previous change that has been made but it does mean it will add a further entry returning the the value to a previous state.

Reverse and Rewind edit history dialog
Reverse/Rewind edit histories

Reverse

Reversing an edit is an exact undo operation. It reverses the change to every attribute that was modified by the selected edit. Note that creation/deletions of xrefs cant be reversed.

For further information on reversing an edit please refer to the Reverse

Change History section of our online help.

Rewind

The Rewind operation essentially reverses all edits working backwards from the most recent back to (and including) the selected edit. Its end result is to restore the item to the state that it was in before the selected edit occurred.

For further information on rewinding edit histories please refer to the Rewind Change History section of our online help.

Results

Further Change History will be generated to show what changes were either reversed or rewound. The example below has seven change history entries. For simplicity each only modified one attribute of the item. Selecting the third entry and then either reverse or rewind will produce the two illustrated results.

Showing the different results for reversing or rewinding
Reverse or Rewind

We hope we have covered all the information that is needed to help you on your way to understanding reverse/rewind. Any more help can be found on our help page.

Article Updated 04/02/2019 –  Updated to say data will not be lost just changed to a state they were previously
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Can I control the shape of a HID?

Hierarchy Diagram Output Control

Yes you can control the shape of a HID (Hierarchy Diagram). In the hid properties you can control the shape and data shown in your HID.

The cross reference links between each item control the connections shown on the HID.  The whole HID layout can be Vertical or Horizontal. The number of levels shown when first rendered (rather than dynamic click and expand) can be controlled. Whether an item is shown more than once if it has multiple cross references and general layout parameters. These are further detailed in How to Set Hierarchy Diagram Properties. Once you are happy with the layout it can be saved for use next time you need a similar pattern.

The HID properties dialog
HID Properties Dialog

Your data may produce a short wide tree or a long narrow tree. This can be difficult to see on the screen. This video shows how changing the pivot point, (the node at which the orientation changes from listing horizontally to vertically) can alter the overall display to be more usable.

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How do I switch on tracing?

Switch on tracing?

Support have asked me to switch on tracing, what is it, and how do I do it?

Occasionally some customer installations don’t allow Cradle to function as required. In order to get to the bottom of this the Cradle Support Team may ask you to ‘turn on tracing’. This will give a comprehensive report of what’s happening internally in Cradle. You can then send these logs for diagnosis. This will then help us resolve your installation issue as fast and efficiently as we can.

Screen shot of Cradle Tracing configuration files
Cradle Tracing Configuration

The files

The files trace_options and trace_config control how tracing is performed. By default they are located in %CRADLEHOME%\admin\trace

trace_options

This file controls when to collect, and is used to simply switch tracing on or off. Setting CDS_USE_TRACE to true will set CDS (Cradle Database Server) tracing on. The file must be the one located on the machine running the CDS. Setting COM_USE_TRACE to true will set tracing on for any client communications. The file that you alter must be on the client machine in question.

The TRACE_CONFIG option allows you to choose which file you want to use to control the tracing, most of the time we suggest you leave it as trace_config in the same directory.

trace_config

This file controls what to collect and where to send the output. The CDS_TRACE_LEVEL and COM_TRACE_LEVEL both control how much tracing to do from LOW, through MEDIUM to HIGH. This will give basic ‘someone logged on’ reports at LOW  through to ‘this message was sent from this process to that client’ at HIGH. Support will advise which level to use, but be wary of leaving HIGH switched on for too long as it will create very large reports.

The CDS_TRACE_LOG and COM_TRACE_LOG are the location where we will write the file. The default logs folder is usually best.

When you have finished tracing don’t forget to set the values in trace_options back to false.

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Discussions in Cradle

What is a Discussion?

A discussion is a hierarchy of comments for an item. The discussions in Cradle concept is similar to email threads:

  • Every item can have arbitrarily many, arbitrarily large, discussions
  • Each discussion has a hierarchy of 1 or more comments
  • Each discussion can have a decision

People can contribute to a discussion.

The discussions mechanism is very powerful. We suggest it can be used:

  • To record discussions as part of formulating requirements and other items in the database
  • As a change proposal system
  • As an informal CM system

Contents of a Discussion

A discussion contains:

  1. A decision – this applies to the entire discussion  containing a status with a value of Open, Agreed, Rejected or Suspended, a reason which is a short summary of why the decision was reached, the Cradle username of the person who recorded the decision and the date and time that the decision was made
  2. A hierarchy of comments, each comment containing a subject, a block of text that constitutes the comment, the Cradle username of the person who created the comment and the date and time that the comment was created

Creating Discussions

When created your new discussion, its decision is set to Open. You can respond to a comment by adding a new comment that is then attached to the existing comment. The same user or another user could respond to either of these comments. Therefore creating a hierarchy of comments.

Please note that comments cannot be changed once committed.

Discussions dialog showing multiple comments
Discussions Dialog in WorkBench

Querying and Reporting on Discussions

Discussions can be reported and included in documents. You can also search the database for items based on their discussions, for example:

  • Discussions where you have made a comment
  • Discussions where comments have been made in the past week
  • Where you need to make a decision on a discussion

For further information on discussions in Cradle’s WorkBench click here. If you would like to see how to work with discussions in Web Access click here.

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Update frame types in your projects

Want to update your existing frame types?

Do you want to update your existing frame types which were originally supplied by 3SL or add any newly supplied frame types from 3SL, to your project?

Has your project been running for a long time, if so does your project support the latest types of files used by third party programs for example Microsoft®’s .vxdx extension files. No need to worry, 3SL supply a range of popular frame types and give you the option to easily update your existing projects to include these.

In project setup under frames types there is an update button which when clicked will bring up a “Update Frame Types” dialog that shows:

  1. All supplied frame types
  2. Whether the frame type already exists in your project
Update frames types dialog
Update frames types dialog

If you click OK the frames which are missing will be added to your project schema but your existing frames will remain untouched.

You also have the option to tick the “Overwrite existing frame types” which, as well as adding the missing frames, will update all the existing frame types with the latest settings supplied by 3SL.

For further information on frame types please refer to the Cradle online help.