Create a Method Plug-in
Method Plug-ins provide a powerful mechanism for extending or customizing
base method content in a library without directly changing that base.
This is done by defining a set of differences relative to the base
in the context of a configuration.
When a configuration is previewed, published, or exported all changes defined in
plug-ins which make up that configuration are resolved and applied to the base content.
Plug-ins are the basic mechanism for separating base content from custom content.
Base content is often supplied as a read-only resource in the public domain,
intended to be reused and customized in local projects.
When you create your own method plug-in
you are able to separate your content from the original library content.
To create a new Method Plug-in:
- Make sure you are in the Authoring Perspective.
- You can begin the method plug-in creation process in one of two
ways:
- Click File > New > Method Plug-in. Or,
- In the Library view, right click an existing plug-in and select New
Method Plug-in.
The New Method Plug-in wizard opens.
- Type a name for your new plug-in in the Name field and then
select a plug-in in the Referenced Plug-ins field. The plug-in you create
extends the plug-in you select from the list and allows you to use content
from the selected plug-in as you create your own plug-in content.
- Provide a brief description of the plug-in and list its authors
to help you and others keep track of the plug-ins in the library. You can
return to edit this information at any time.
- Click Finish.
Your new plug-in now appears in the Library View with the other
Method Plug-ins.