Having a hard time creating your first UML diagram? Yes, they can be quite difficult at first. But you can make this task easy by using the right tool.
A UML diagram is an acronym for Unified Modeling Languages. It is a visual representation of a static system. This diagram helps us understand the roles, components, actions, classes, objects, and artifacts in a system.
UML diagrams are easier to grasp than documentation of software. It covers all the aspects of system development, its functions, and its structure. But how to create these diagrams? You can use a dedicated application for this job.
Let’s go through this guide to learn how to draw UML diagrams effectively and easily!
How To Create UML Diagrams?
Now, let’s go to our main discussion, how to create a UML diagram. Here’s how!
- Download and install the EdrawMax application on your system or head to its web version.
- Log in or sign up if you don’t have an account.
- Once logged in, select New from the left toolbar. Next, click Software and Database to expand its section, and choose Software Development.
- Open UML Modeling from the list of diagrams.
- Select a new page by clicking Blank Drawing or choose a template. Let’s create a new diagram for this guide.
- After opening a blank page, you will see all the available components on the left toolbar. Click a section to expand it and pick an element. Now, drag and drop it on the canvas.
- Now, click the element to change its properties, like color, size, style, text, etc.
- Similarly, pick more components from the toolbar and place them on the canvas. Draw relationships between the elements to create a structure in your system.
- Once done, save the file by going to the File section and selecting Save as or Export. EdrawMax allows you to export a file in various formats, including HTML, PPT, Excel, Word, PDF, PNG, JPEG, PS, SVG, etc.
Why Should You Choose EdrawMax As Your UML Diagram Tool?
Some UML drawing tools are designed for experts while others are for beginners as they only have simple features. But EdrawMax has an edge. It is a UML diagram tool that works for both new and experienced users. Here’s why:
Collection Of Templates
EdrawMax enables you to draw UML diagrams from ready-made templates. The application has a built-in library providing hundreds of editable UML templates. It is the best for users who are new to designing UML diagrams.
Endless Customization
In a detailed diagram, distinguishing each element can be challenging. But EdrawMax makes it simpler. The application has tons of customization features, allowing you alter individual styles for a component, making it unique. Ultimately, it leads to your diagrams being easier to understand.
Library Of Digital Components
EdrawMax has a large collection of symbols – all specifically designed for UML diagrams. You will find UML components, statechart, sequences, use cases, deployment, activity states, object relationships, and class diagrams in this collection.
Add More Symbols
If you do not find the symbol you need in your UML diagram, EdrawMax allows users to import symbols and elements from other categories, including network diagrams, cloud services, project management, database modeling, and wireframe. Furthermore, you can save those new symbols in your personal library to easily access them in your next design.
How To Read UML Diagrams?
UML diagrams are easier to understand than documentation. But how to read a UML diagram? You can study such diagrams by understanding their defining factors; relationships and abstract classes.
Every UML diagram consists of the following three sections:
1. Upper Section
This part contains the necessary information about a class. Every class in the UML diagram must have a name. But how do you define a class? It is a group of objects that have similar attributes and operations.
2. Middle Section
The attributes are also known as the encapsulation states of a class. They are in the second partition of the UML diagram. A class attribute has three visibility factors, private (-), public (+), and package (~). Every attribute has a type.
3. Lower Section
Lastly, the lower part of a UML diagram consists of operations. They are also called methods or behavior. Every operation has its signature. Generally, methods are services carried out by a class. They define how classes engage with data in a system.
Every UML diagram consists of relationships between its components. If its objects are not connected, the system will fail. The relationship is the most important part of reading a diagram. It tells readers how they can implement the code from a UML representation.
Another thing to consider when reading a UML diagram is notes. They further define a class or relationship in a system. You can also add notes when drawing these diagrams. They help readers get a better understanding of the system and its functionality.
Conclusion
That’s how to draw a UML diagram in just 9 steps. It is not a difficult job if you choose the right application. All it requires is practice. Try drawing simpler UML diagrams at first to get a good grasp on classes and their relationships.
If it is your first-time drawing of UML diagrams, try EdrawMax templates. They will serve as a roadmap for making UML diagrams. Templates will give you a clear idea of how to move from one component to another. When you are done drawing your first diagram, you can share it with the world.
