ERwin Data modeling basics - Creating a new model, entity and attribute

CA ERwin Data Modeler (ERwin) is a software tool for data modeling (data requirements analysis, database design etc.) of custom developed information systems, including databases of transactional systems and data marts.

In this article, let us start with some of the basics of ERwin modeler tool


Creating a new data model

This tool is predominantly used for creating Logical & Physical data models. To create a new model, click File --> New

Once a new model screen appears, you can start working on your requirement.

Creating a new data model from existing template

To create a new model from existing template, click File --> New    
Select the highlighted icon. Browse through folders to select an existing model/template

Select an existing model/template to start working on a new model with the existing template

Note:

In case you are using an existing template, you can use the below tips:

1. Using an existing physical model, you can create a logical/physical model
2. Using an existing logical model, you can create a logical/physical model
3. But, using an existing logical model, you cannot create a physical model and vice versa.

 Working with entities and attributes:

To know about entity / attributes, please refer the below links:
http://gerardnico.com/wiki/data_modeling/entity

http://gerardnico.com/wiki/data_modeling/attribute

Creating a new entity:

Click on the Entity icon in tool bar and click on the model to create a new entity

Editing Entity Name:

Click on the Entity Name to edit the entity.

Editing Attribute Name:

Method 1:

Click on the Attribute name for editing its name. By pressing 'Tab' key, a new attribute will be created.

Method 2:

Double click on the attribute name to get the below screen, where name, data type & constraints can be defined or modified.