Shapes on Multiple Layers In Visio

CAD systems adopted layering systems early on. Since all CAD data is really stored in a database that uses a graphics front-end to input and output information, the concept of layers is much the same as a database filter. Information can be stored and presented based on an attribute that is called a layer for the sake of a metaphor with traditional drafting practise.

In traditional systems and most CAD systems, drawing entities can only reside on one layer. In Visio, drawing shapes can be associated with as many layers as you like.

Unlike traditional layers, Visio layers do not determine how shapes appear on a page. Overlap is determined by shape stacking order and background  assignments.

Unlike CAD drawings, which always use layers, the use of layers in Visio drawings is optional. In fact, shapes cannot be drawn on a default layer. They must have layers assigned to them. In the assignment, you can select multiple layers for any shape.

• Select a shape
• Select View > Shape Layer...
• Highlight the layers you wish to assign. Hold down the Ctrl key and click to select multiple layers
• Buttons enable you to toggle All or None, or create a New layer
• A check box is provided to Preserve Group Member Layers. If this box is checked, shapes in selected groups retain their individual layer assignments. If not, shapes adopt the assignment of the group and lose previous assignments.

Layer properties are controlled in the layer dialog box View > Layer Properties...

In systems that allow unlimited layers, a layer for each class of data that needs is more versatile than assigning multiple layers to shapes. However, in the case of Visio, which does not provide layer sorting and control mechanisms that become essential with large numbers of layers, assignment of multiple layers to a shape is both practical and sensible. It is a good example of a simple technique that is appropriate to fast, efficient drawing.