Graph Authoring Modes
Understanding Mind Map, Conceptual, and Graph DB modes for different stages of graph design. Graph DB mode is also the authoring mode used by the project model (model.neoarc) for model-first data architecture.
Graph diagrams in NeoArc support three authoring modes, each designed for a different stage of thinking. Choose the mode that matches where you are in your design process: early exploration, domain alignment, or production schema design.
Mode Comparison
Each mode progressively reveals more features while maintaining the same underlying graph structure.
Mind Map Mode
Mind Map mode is for idea exploration when you do not yet know the final structure. The interface is minimal, letting you focus on capturing thoughts quickly without distraction.
Example: Product Strategy Mind Map
This mind map shows idea exploration for a product strategy session. The radial layout naturally organises branches from the central concept.
Conceptual Mode
Conceptual mode is for domain modelling when you need to communicate with stakeholders. Relationship labels help explain connections, and key role indicators show important fields without requiring full type definitions.
Example: E-Commerce Domain Model
This conceptual model shows an e-commerce domain with labelled relationships. Key roles identify important fields without requiring full schema details.
Graph DB Mode
Graph DB mode is for designing production schemas. Full property editing includes types, constraints, default values, and validation rules. The schema can be exported to Cypher for Neo4j deployment. This is also the authoring mode used by the project model (model.neoarc), where it drives derived views and per-property projections.
Example: Social Network Graph Schema
This graph database schema shows a social network with full property definitions, constraints, and cardinality. Each node and relationship includes complete type information.
Switching Between Modes
You can switch between modes at any time using the mode selector in the right panel. Your data is preserved; only the visible features change.
This allows a natural workflow:
Mode Inference for Legacy Documents
When opening a graph diagram that was created before authoring modes were introduced, NeoArc infers the appropriate mode:
Validation by Mode
Each mode enables different validation categories: