Explore the InfoWorks ICM database and create database groups

Step-by-step guide

The Explorer window is a hierarchical representation of the data within the current database. The Explorer displays the database contents as a tree and provides a range of options to manage this tree data. It is typically docked on the left side of the interface, but it can be moved.

To display the Explorer window:

1. Select Window > New Explorer window.

The Explorer provides access to all groups and objects within the database to:

• Drag and drop to open
• Double-click to open
• Right-click to access context menus

Use the Explorer tabs to switch among other database windows.

Groups allow you to structure and organize the database. They are like folders used to hold many different types of objects. At the top level is the Group, which can contain global data, such as both a model group and an asset group. All other database items, such as ICM specific objects, must be contained in a model group.

To create a new main group:

2. In the Explorer window, right-click the Database.
3. Select New > Group.

4. In the New Name dialog box, enter a name for the group.
5. Click OK.

To create a new model group:

6. Right-click the database, the main group, or another model group.
7. Select New > Model Group.

8. In the New Name popup, type a Name for the group.
9. Click OK.

Once a model group is created, create a new database item to reside within it:

10. Right-click the Model group.
11. Select New InfoWorks
    OR Import InfoWorks.

This displays an extensive list of objects that can be created for that model. InfoWorks items are the ones native to ICM.

IMPORTANT: For shared workgroup databases or large databases, it is best practice to plan out your model group structures and data organization with careful consideration. Navigating the database is easiest for all users when you make it obvious where specific objects are located.