Used in a sequence diagram, an activation shows the time period during which an object or actor is performing an action.

Activation shape.

On an object lifeline, the activation rectangle sits on top of the lifeline. Align the top of the rectangle with the initiation time and the bottom with the completion time.

Note: Creating and editing UML diagrams on Visio for the web requires a Visio Plan 1 or Visio Plan 2 license, which is purchased separately from Microsoft 365. For more information, contact your Microsoft 365 admin. If your admin has turned on "self-service purchasing," you can buy a license for Visio yourself. For more details, see Self-service purchase FAQ.

See Also

Create a UML sequence diagram

Need more help?

Want more options?

Explore subscription benefits, browse training courses, learn how to secure your device, and more.

Communities help you ask and answer questions, give feedback, and hear from experts with rich knowledge.