This guide describes how versioning works in Ellie. The same behavior applies to model versioning and entity versioning (for glossary entities). Both use snapshots you can view, create, restore from, or create a new model or entity from.

Where versioning is available

Models: Open a model, then open the Versioning view from the right top bar.

Versioning on modeling canvas

Entities: Open an entity in the glossary, then open the Versioning view for that entity from 3-dot menu.

Versioning on single entity view

The Versioning View

When you open versioning for a model or entity:

Side panel: Lists all snapshots (newest first by default). Each entry shows snapshot name, date, and optionally who edited the model.
Main area: Shows a preview of the snapshot currently selected in the list. You can inspect structure and content without restoring.

Select a snapshot in the list to see its preview. Use this to compare versions or choose the right snapshot before restoring.

Versioning view for model

Snapshots

Automatic snapshots

Snapshots are created automatically in two cases:

Time-based: Ellie creates snapshots every 15 minutes. New snapshot is created only if the model has new changes.
Important actions: A snapshot is created when certain actions are performed (e.g. autodraw model, convert to another level, before restore).

Manual snapshots

To capture the current state at any time:

Open the Versioning view for the model or entity.
Click plus button in the right sidebar.
Enter the snapshot name and description.

Editing a Snapshot

You can change only the snapshot's name and description (metadata), not its content. In the Versioning view, open the snapshot's edit option from 3-dot menu, update Name and Description, then save.

Restoring from a Snapshot

Restoring replaces the current version of the model or entity with the selected snapshot. Any changes made after that snapshot was taken will be lost.

Open the Versioning view for the model or entity.
Select the snapshot you want to restore in the list. Use the preview to confirm it is the correct version.
Click Restore from 3-dot menu.
Follow further instructions in the UI.

Snapshot actions menu

Creating a new model or entity from a snapshot

Instead of overwriting the current model or entity, you can create a new one from a snapshot. The original stays unchanged. In the Versioning view, select the snapshot, open the 3-dot menu, choose Create model from snapshot or Create entity from snapshot (or equivalent), then follow the UI to name and place the new item.