# wallpaper_slideshow Basics & Functions of Graphical Tools

Graphical tools, such as the Whiteboard, are at the heart of visual collaboration. While each tool is designed for specialized tasks, they all follow a consistent operating logic.

Expand Table of Contents

# Anatomy of a Graphical Tool

Every graphical tool is divided into three logical areas to ensure intuitive operation:

  1. The Toolbar (top): Access all functions for creating, editing, and managing elements.
  2. The Main Workspace (center): Your interactive canvas. This is where text cards, symbols, and diagrams are placed and moved freely.
  3. The Integrated Chat (right): Each tool features its own chat channel for context-based coordination and documentation.

Workspace Layout Illustration

Figure: Structure of a graphical tool using the Whiteboard as an example


# construction The Toolbar in Detail

The toolbar provides quick access to core functions. Many buttons include a dropdown menu (small arrow) for advanced options.

Toolbar Detailed View

Figure: Functional areas of the toolbar

# 1. "Insert" Section

  • image Background: Select a suitable background image from the library.
    Advanced Functions (Dropdown): * Custom Background Image: Select your own images or upload new ones.

    Image Management

    You can store custom images in designated folders: Managing Documents. During upload, you can crop the image to ensure it fits the tool frame perfectly.

    • Canvas Size: Expand the workspace to double or triple its original height.

      Running out of space?

      Many tools can be extended downwards. Use this for extensive brainstorming, but keep in mind that participants will need to scroll to see all content.

      • category Symbol: Add icons or geometric shapes to your visualization.

      Custom Symbols (Dropdown)

      You can upload and select your own graphic files. PNG files with transparency are ideal, as they integrate seamlessly and can be moved freely on the canvas just like the built-in symbols.
      Upload details: Managing Documents

  • sticky_note_2 Text Field: Places a text card on the canvas. You can choose different background colors for the card directly from the menu.

# 2. "Pointer Function" Section

This defines how your mouse interacts with the canvas. Only one mode can be active at a time:

  • arrows_output Selection Mode: Click, move, or resize objects.
  • flare Laser Pointer: Activates a red dot that other participants can follow in real-time.
  • edit Pen: Enables freehand drawing. Color and line thickness can be adjusted via the adjacent buttons.

Workflow Tip

Remember to switch back to Selection Mode (or press the Esc key) after drawing to be able to grab, move, or resize objects again.

# 3. "View" Section visibility

Control the layout of your workspace:

  • Fit to Screen: The entire tool is scaled down to fit the window without scrolling (best for overviews).
  • Maximize Height: The tool uses the full available width. For portrait content (e.g., PDF presentations), scrolling may be required.
  • Toggle Chat: Show or hide the chat area on the right to gain more space for graphical work.

# 4. "Copy" Section content_copy

Allows you to copy and paste objects—even across different tools.


# Interaction on the Canvas

Once objects are placed, you have intuitive ways to manipulate them:

  • Selecting: A single click selects an object. Four blue circles (handles) appear for resizing.
  • Rotating: A rotation point extends from the top of the object. Click and hold it to rotate the object to any angle.
  • Moving: Selected objects can be positioned anywhere via drag-and-drop.

# The Context Menu

When you click on an object, a specific toolbar appears directly next to it. This allows you to edit text, change shapes, or adjust the layering (Bring to Front / Send to Back).


# chat Communication in Chat

The integrated chat offers the full functionality of the standalone chat tools. You can format text, exchange files, and record important milestones without leaving the graphical view.

More on Chat

Detailed information on chat functionality can be found in the article about the Chat Tool.