DGN to SHP file, Add Attributes to Cells

Question

Hello. I am trying to rough my way through what i assume to be a simple process. I have Bentley Map v8i included with my PowerInroads V8i v08.11.07.615 installation. I have displayed some cells in the DGN at appropriate coordinates, and have become familiar with exporting these cells to a SHP file, and everything seems to jive. My question is, i would like to be able to add attributes to these cells before the export, and can't seem to find a way how. Is this functionality available through microstation or bentley map, or what can anyone advise as far as adding attributes to these cells? Thanks very much for the help in advance!

Jan Šlegr · Accepted Answer

Hi, 
 I'd like to extend Dan's answer, because I think the process and XFM world is not easy to understand for the first sight. 
 To export cell to SHP with custom attributes, the cell has to be XFM object. In such case the attributes are exported automatically. To convert (Bentley Map term is "to promote") general graphic element to XFM object, you have to have XFM project (which is MicroStation workspace extended with specific settings) defined and loaded. 
 The whole process has two parts: A hard one and easy one. 
 The hard part (in terms of complexity) is to define own XFM project. To do this, you have to use Bentley Geospatial Administrator, which is a standard part of Bentley Map (and also PowerCivil) installation. If you know you will use export element to SHP with attributes regularly and often, it's wise to learn GSA. If you will be able to create your first project, a next one will be much easier. On the other hand, if this is exceptional requirement, it's probably easier to ask somebody to create the project for you. 
 The easy part is to promote an element to XFM object: If XFM project is defined well, a promote tool is available for XFM features. After you promote the element into XFM object (feature), you can edit its attributes. 
 I have not tried to use Bentley Map inside PowerCivil product, but I assume it will be not too different from normal Bentley Map. 
 With regards, 
 Jan