Separate Overlapping Symbols affects selected symbols primarily, but can move non-selected symbols to achieve its goal.

Use this function to add space between rectangular symbols that overlap other symbols. The problem of overlap most frequently occurs when properties are displayed. You determine which properties to display using the Display Mode command in the View menu.

Separate Overlapping Symbols moves one or more symbols away from each other until the selected symbol no longer overlaps other symbols. Separate Overlapping Symbols attempts to accomplish this goal by moving symbols other than the one selected. Depending on the configuration of selected and non-selected symbols, a selected symbol might also be moved to create space.

To use this function, pull down the Format menu and select the Separate Overlapping Symbols command.

The Separate Overlapping Symbols command is not available to the following diagram types: Auto Decomposition, Functional Hierarchy, Organization Chart, Process Decomposition, Process Hierarchy, and XML.