What Is EA Scripting?

What Is EA Scripting?

EA scripting, also known as Enterprise Architect scripting, is a powerful feature in the popular modeling tool, Enterprise Architect. It allows users to automate tasks and enhance the functionality of the tool by writing scripts using JavaScript or VBScript.

Why Use EA Scripting?

EA scripting can greatly improve your modeling experience by automating repetitive tasks and extending the capabilities of Enterprise Architect. With scripting, you can:

• Simplify Workflow: By automating repetitive tasks, you can save time and effort. EA scripting allows you to create custom scripts tailored to your specific needs.
• Create Custom Reports: You can generate custom reports with the exact information you need, presented in a format that suits your requirements.
• Integrate with External Tools: You can integrate Enterprise Architect with other tools or systems by writing scripts that exchange data or perform actions between them.
• Extend Functionality: EA scripting enables you to add new features and functionality to Enterprise Architect. You can create custom dialogs, add menu items, or even build entire extensions.

Getting Started with EA Scripting

To start using EA scripting, follow these steps:

1. Select the Scripting Language: Choose between JavaScript or VBScript as your scripting language. Both languages are supported in Enterprise Architect.
2. Create a New Script: Open the Scripting window within Enterprise Architect and create a new script file.
3. Write Your Code: Begin writing your code using the chosen scripting language.

   Familiarize yourself with the Enterprise Architect scripting API to access and manipulate model elements.

4. Test and Debug: Test your script within Enterprise Architect to ensure it functions as expected. Use debugging tools to identify and fix any issues.
5. Deploy Your Script: Once your script is working correctly, you can deploy it for use across projects or share it with other users.

Example: Creating a Custom Report

Let’s look at an example of how EA scripting can be used to create a custom report:

// JavaScript Example

// Get all classes in the model
var classes = Repository.GetTreeSelectedElements();

// Create a new Document object
var doc = new ActiveXObject("Word.Application");

// Create a new Word document
doc.Documents.Add();

// Loop through each class and add its name to the document
for (var i = 0; i < classes.Count; i++) {
  doc.Selection.TypeText(classes.GetAt(i).Name);
  doc.TypeParagraph();
}

// Save the document
doc.SaveAs("C:\\CustomReport.docx");

// Close Word
doc.Quit();

This script retrieves all selected classes in the model and creates a new Microsoft Word document. It then loops through each class, adding its name to the document. Finally, it saves the document as "CustomReport.docx" and closes Microsoft Word.

Note: This is just a simple example to demonstrate the concept. In practice, you can create much more complex reports by accessing various properties of model elements.

Conclusion

EA scripting is a valuable tool for automating tasks, creating custom reports, integrating with external systems, and extending the functionality of Enterprise Architect. By harnessing the power of scripting, you can enhance your modeling experience and improve productivity.