You can create models to visualize, explore and present the connections in your data. For example, you might use a model to plan your project and sketch your expectations or hypotheses.
Models are made up of shapes and connectors that may or may not be linked to existing project items. Examples
When a shape or connector is linked to an existing project item, you can easily open the item and explore it in Detail View.
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If you delete a project item that is linked to a shape, the shape remains in the model but is displayed with a red cross |
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By default, the models you create in NVivo are 'dynamic'. This means you can make shapes 'live' to the data by linking them to existing project items—and you can open the project item directly from the shape.
After creating a model, you may want to keep a 'snapshot' of it at a particular point in your project. This snapshot is called a 'static' model. You cannot edit static models and they are no longer linked to the live data in your project—so if you change a name of a node, for example, it will not be updated in the static model.
When working with a model you can:
Copy/paste, drag and drop or use the Model menu to add project item shapes to the model—including sets or query results.
Add a project item along with its associated items.
See how project items in a model are linked.
Group items and show or hide the groups as required. This allows you to show stages or different views on the same model.
Zoom out to see more of a model at a reduced size.
You can drag shapes and connectors to move them to the required position in a model. NVivo also provides a number of automatic layout options that can be a useful starting point for laying out your model—experiment with the options to find one that suits you. You can find these options by clicking the Model menu and selecting Layout. View layout options
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Option |
Description |
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Circular |
Arrange items in a circular layout:
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Directed |
Arrange items in force-directed layout—this is the calculated 'best fit' for the physical space (all edges are of more or less equal length and there are as few crossing edges as possible). This layout is often used for three dimensional models.
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Hierarchical |
Arrange items in a hierarchy:
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Orthogonal |
Arrange items in a right-angled layout:
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and you can no longer open the linked item.
