Choose a starting point

Last updated 2026-10-10

Choose a starting point

When you create a model in OnyxJar, you can begin with an empty model or choose a prepared template. Neither option is right for every situation. The best choice is the one that gives you a useful structure for the work you want to understand.

Start with an empty model

An empty model is a good choice when your subject is unusual, when the available templates don't fit well, or when you want to define the structure yourself.

This approach gives you control over the kinds of things the model will contain and the relationships between them. It can also mean more setup work: you'll need to establish the structure that makes sense for your subject before the model becomes useful.

Choose an empty model when:

the available templates would bring in concepts you don't need;
your subject needs a structure that is specific to your work; or
you already have a clear view of the kinds of things and connections you want to represent.

You don't need to design the whole model in advance. Start with the core concepts, then extend the structure when you have a clear reason to do so.

Start with a prepared template

A prepared template gives you a starting structure for a familiar kind of work. It can help you get moving without having to define every type and relationship from scratch.

OnyxJar includes starting points for a range of subjects, such as business operations, application management, project or programme delivery, and product or domain modelling. The best template is not necessarily the one with the closest name; choose the one whose structure most closely matches what you need to represent.

Before you build on a template, look through the structure it provides. Consider which concepts are useful, which need to be adapted, and which are irrelevant to your particular situation. A template is a starting point, not a finished model of your organisation or project.

Choose a template when:

it represents a subject close to the one you're modelling;
its initial structure gives you a useful head start; and
you are comfortable adapting it as you learn more about the subject.

How to decide

Ask yourself three questions:

Does the template fit the subject? A close fit is more useful than a large template full of unrelated concepts.
Will the prepared structure save work? If you would remove most of it, starting empty may be simpler.
Do you want to shape the structure yourself? If defining the model is part of the work, an empty start may suit you better.

Whichever option you choose, treat the first version as something to develop. Keep the model focused on the questions it needs to answer, and change its structure when you have a clear reason to do so.

Continue creating your model

Your choice is made during the model creation flow, in the Starting point stage. Review the selection before finishing the creation flow.

For the full sequence, see Create your first model. Once your model is ready, Navigate your model explains the main views you can use to explore it.