Graphical Representation

Summary

An <xs:element> that is defined in a global scope (i.e. its parent is <xs:schema>) can be referenced through out the schema. This provides a mechanism for reuse.

Note: <xs:complexType> is typically am much better mechanism to provide re-use. Globally defined elements indicate that the element can be the root element in an XML Document, so over use of them can be confusing.

Creating

An <xs:element> can be referenced by setting a the type of the <xs:element> to the name of an existing global element. This can be done via the properties panel or the type drop down in the graphical view.

Sample

The following XSD code

<xs:element name="Address">

<xs:complexType>

<xs:sequence>

<xs:element name="Line1" type="xs:string" />

<xs:element name="Line2" type="xs:string" />

<xs:element name="Postcode" type="xs:string" />

</xs:sequence>

</xs:complexType>

</xs:element>

...

<xs:element name="Customer">

<xs:complexType>

<xs:sequence>

<xs:element ref="Address" />

</xs:sequence>

</xs:complexType>

</xs:element>

Will be represented like this

 

Sample XML would look like this

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-16"?>

<Customer>

<Address>

<Line1>12 SomePlace St</Line1>

<Line2>Some Town</Line2>

<Postcode>HG27JU</Postcode>

</Address>

</Customer>