Problem

What is the asterisk "*" column mean when looking at an alternative?

Explanation

The check mark in the "*" column indicates that the information in that is local to that alternative. In other words, it indicates that some of the data for that element has been changed and now all the related data for that element is no longer inherited from the base alternative. If you look at the bottom of the alternative dialog, you will see a key as to what these mean. If there is no check mark, all data for the element was inherited from the base or parent alternative. (Inherited records are dynamic. If the record is changed in the parent, the change is reflected in the child.) If there is a check mark, something has changed in the child scenario. If the column is shaded in yellow, this indicates that it is the base alternative. 

For more information on scenarios and alternatives, see the Scenario and Alternative Management TechNote