The Operation Element

The Operation element typically consists of an Input element and an Output element, though they can be used individually and in different orders to support different types of operations. For example, if you are describing

A request-response Operation (a user provides a stock quote ticker, and the Web service returns information about that stock, for example), the Operation would contain both Input (the stock ticker) and Output (the Web service response) elements.

A one-way Operation (a user submits information to the Web service, without a response from the Web service), the Operation would contain an Input element.

A solicit-response Operation (the Web service contacts a client, who provides the requested input), the Operation would contain both Output (the Web service request) and Input (the client response) elements.

A notification Operation (the Web service emits output, with no response required or expected), the Operation would have a single Output element.

An optional Fault element can be used for error handling in both request-response and solicit response Operation models.

Operation Element Code Sample

The structure of an Operation element might look like this:


<wsdl:operation name="Operation-0"> <wsdl:input/> <wsdl:output/> <wsdl:fault/> </wsdl:operation>

How to Create an Operation Element

To create an Operation element:

1. Select the PortType element.

2. Select Diagram > Add > Operation from the Stylus Studio menu.

Alternative: Right-click the PortType element and choose Add > Operation from the shortcut menu.

Stylus Studio adds an Operation element to the WSDL as a child of the PortType element. The default name is Operation-0, but you can change it. Operation names are not required to be unique.