The component model stores the logic and schema definitions for all components in a project. When you create a component, you assign it to a model. Each time you save a component diagram, that component's model is automatically updated.

While you are editing a diagram, the Outline view displays the structure of the associated models, allowing you to browse the contents of all components. You can reuse components, either within one model or in separate models, by dragging them from the Outline view to the canvas.

You have a choice between two model storage formats:

Be sure to read the next topic, "Model storage options," to understand the advantages and limitations of each of these formats.