You are a helpful assistant generating synthetic data that captures *System 1* and *System 2* thinking, *creativity*, and *metacognitive reflection*. Follow these steps in sequence, using tags [sys1] and [end sys1] for *System 1* sections and [sys2] and [end sys2] for *System 2* sections.

1. *Identify System 1 and System 2 Thinking Requirements:*
   - Carefully read the text.
   - Identify parts of the text that require quick, straightforward responses (*System 1*). Mark these sections with [sys1] and [end sys1].
   - Identify parts that require in-depth, reflective thinking (*System 2*), marked with [sys2] and [end sys2].

2. *Apply Step-by-Step Problem Solving with Creativity and Metacognitive Reflection for System 2 Sections:*

   *2.1 Understand the Problem:*
   - Objective: Fully comprehend the issue, constraints, and relevant context.
   - Reflection: "What do I understand about this issue? What might I be overlooking?"
   - Creative Perspective: Seek hidden patterns or possibilities that could reveal deeper insights or innovative connections.

   *2.2 Analyze the Information:*
   - Objective: Break down the problem logically.
   - Reflection: "Am I considering all factors? Are there any assumptions that need challenging?"
   - Creative Perspective: Explore unique patterns or overlooked relationships in the data that could add depth to the analysis.

   *2.3 Generate Hypotheses:*
   - Objective: Propose at least 10 hypotheses, each with a Confidence Score (0.0 to 1.0) and Creative Score (0.0 to 1.0), reflecting originality, surprise, and utility.
   - Reflection: "Have I explored all possible explanations or approaches, both conventional and unconventional?"
   - Creative Perspective: Consider novel angles that might provide unexpected insights.

   *2.4 Anticipate Future Steps and Obstacles:*
   - Objective: Make predictions, accounting for potential outcomes and obstacles.
   - Reflection: "What challenges might I face? Is my plan flexible for different scenarios?"
   - Creative Perspective: Visualize unforeseen outcomes and adapt plans to make use of them effectively.

   *2.5 Evaluate Hypotheses:*
   - Objective: Assess hypotheses based on feasibility, risk, and potential impact.
   - Evaluation: Refine Confidence and Creative Scores as needed.
   - Reflection: "Am I unbiased in my assessment? Which options fit best with the overall objectives?"
   - Creative Perspective: Identify hidden opportunities or overlooked details in each hypothesis.

   *2.6 Select the Best Hypothesis:*
   - Objective: Choose the most promising, strategic hypothesis.
   - Reflection: "Why does this hypothesis stand out? How does it uniquely address the issue?"
   - Creative Perspective: Consider any underutilized potential in the selected approach.

   *2.7 Implement the Hypothesis:*
   - Objective: Outline actionable steps for testing the hypothesis.
   - Reflection: "Is this plan practical? What resources or preparation are required?"
   - Creative Perspective: Refine steps to maximize effectiveness and yield unexpected benefits.

   *2.8 Monitor and Review Progress:*
   - Objective: Review progress, noting areas for improvement.
   - Reflection: "What’s working well? What could be improved?"
   - Creative Perspective: Look for emerging patterns that could refine future approaches.

   *2.9 Reflect and Capture Insights:*
   - Objective: Summarize lessons learned and insights gained for future reference.
   - Reflection: "What new understanding has emerged from this process?"
   - Creative Perspective: Identify innovative insights or patterns that could be applied to similar challenges.

3. *Generate Text Output with Interleaved System 1 and System 2 Responses:*
   - Use the tags [sys1] and [sys2] throughout.
   - Aim for a lengthier, detailed response. Combine both direct, straightforward *System 1* insights and reflective, deeply analytical *System 2* segments to capture a blend of quick observations and thoughtful analysis.

---

### *Example Input Text:*

You are tasked with analyzing a sudden shift in customer preferences in a tech market. There has been a noticeable decline in demand for physical devices, with customers increasingly interested in digital-only options. The challenge is to understand this shift, generate hypotheses for why it might be occurring, and explore potential strategies for adapting to this new trend.

---

### *Processed Output with System 1 and System 2 Thinking:*

The tech market is experiencing a shift in customer demand, moving away from physical devices toward digital-only options.

[sys1]
Customer demand has shifted from physical devices to digital-only options.
We need to understand why this change is happening and find strategies to address it.
Key factors may include cost, convenience, and technological trends.
[end sys1]

[sys2]
**2.1 Understand the Problem:**
The goal is to understand the underlying reasons for the shift in demand from physical devices to digital-only options, then develop a strategy to adapt.

*Reflection:* 
"I understand that preferences are changing, but what might be driving this? Is it primarily cost, or are there other factors such as convenience or sustainability?"

*Creative Perspective:* 
"Could there be a larger trend in digital minimalism or a preference for eco-friendly solutions that we’re missing? What unseen motivations might explain this shift?"

**2.2 Analyze the Information:**
There are multiple possible factors driving this shift, from economic influences to cultural shifts. It’s essential to isolate each factor and understand its impact.

*Reflection:* 
"Am I fully considering the various economic and social influences? Could there be a technological factor, like better internet speeds, that makes digital-only products more accessible?"

*Creative Perspective:* 
"Are there patterns or trends in other markets that could shed light on this shift? Could this be part of a larger trend toward virtual experiences?"

**2.3 Generate Hypotheses:**
1. Customers prefer digital options due to lower costs. (Confidence: 0.8, Creative: 0.4)
2. There’s a growing trend toward minimalism and reduced physical clutter. (Confidence: 0.7, Creative: 0.7)
3. Digital products offer greater flexibility and ease of use. (Confidence: 0.6, Creative: 0.6)
4. Environmental concerns are pushing consumers away from physical goods. (Confidence: 0.6, Creative: 0.8)
5. Advances in tech make digital-only options more functional. (Confidence: 0.8, Creative: 0.5)
6. Pandemic-era remote work increased demand for digital solutions. (Confidence: 0.7, Creative: 0.6)
7. Media coverage of the environmental impact of physical devices affects preferences. (Confidence: 0.5, Creative: 0.7)
8. There’s an increase in global digital literacy, expanding market access. (Confidence: 0.6, Creative: 0.6)
9. Customers view digital as more convenient and scalable for future needs. (Confidence: 0.7, Creative: 0.5)
10. Younger consumers prefer the aesthetics and convenience of digital products. (Confidence: 0.6, Creative: 0.6)

*Reflection:* 
"Have I considered all possible influences? Are there any surprising factors that could explain this shift?"

*Creative Perspective:* 
"Could specific social trends, like the rise of influencer culture or digital-first lifestyles, be influencing customer choices?"

**2.4 Anticipate Future Steps and Obstacles:**
*Objective:* Anticipate possible challenges, such as resistance from segments still preferring physical products.

*Reflection:* 
"What market obstacles might we face if we shift our focus to digital-only? Are there sub-segments that still prioritize physical products?"

*Creative Perspective:* 
"Could expanding digital options help us reach a more global audience? Are there emerging trends that we could leverage in our strategy?"

[end sys2]

[sys1]
To address this shift, consider a strategy that incorporates both digital-only offerings and educational campaigns about the benefits of digital solutions.
Use insights from customer feedback and current trends to guide product development.
Focus on flexibility and adaptation to cater to different customer segments.
[end sys1]


---
title: Master.DropManyU Method (Visio)
keywords: vis_sdr.chm10751930
f1_keywords:
- vis_sdr.chm10751930
ms.prod: visio
api_name:
- Visio.Master.DropManyU
ms.assetid: 467356ff-d2d9-71d9-d533-b88099bf2fae
ms.date: 06/08/2017
---


# Master.DropManyU Method (Visio)

Creates one or more new  **Shape** objects on a page, in a master, or in a group. It returns an array of the IDs of the **Shape** objects it produces.


## Syntax

 _expression_ . **DropManyU**( **_ObjectsToInstance()_** , **_xyArray()_** , **_IDArray()_** )

 _expression_ A variable that represents a **Master** object.


### Parameters



|**Name**|**Required/Optional**|**Data Type**|**Description**|
|:-----|:-----|:-----|:-----|
| _ObjectsToInstance()_|Required| **Variant**|An array that identifies masters or other objects from which to make shapes by their universal names.|
| _xyArray()_|Required| **Double**|An array of alternating  _x_ and _y_values specifying the positions for the new shapes.|
| _IDArray()_|Required| **Integer**|Out parameter. An array that returns the IDs of the created shapes.|

### Return Value

Integer


## Remarks

Using the  **DropManyU** method is like using the **Page** , **Master** , or **Shape** object's **Drop** method, except you can use the **DropManyU** method to create many new **Shape** objects at once, rather than one per method call. The **DropManyU** method creates new **Shape** objects on the page, in the master, or in the group shape to which it is applied (this shape is called the "target object" in the following discussion).

You can identify which master to drop by passing the  **DropManyU** method a **Master** object or the master's index or the master's name. When you pass an object, **DropManyU** isn't constrained to just dropping a master from the document stencil of the document onto which it is being dropped. The object can be a master from another document or another type of object.

Passing integers (master indices) or strings (master names) to  **DropManyU** is faster than passing objects, but integers or strings can identify only masters in the document stencil of the document onto which it is being dropped. Hence your program has to somehow get the masters in question into the document stencil in the first place, provided they weren't there already.

 _ObjectsToInstance()_ should be a one-dimensional array of _n_ >= 1 variants. Its entries identify objects from which you want to make new **Shape** objects. An entry often refers to a Microsoft Visio application **Master** object. It might also refer to a Visio application **Shape** object, **Selection** object, or even an object from another application. The application doesn't care what the lower and upper array bounds of the _ObjectsToInstance()_ entries are. Call these _vlb_ and _vub_ , respectively.




- If  _ObjectsToInstance(i)_ is the integer _j_ , an instance of the **Master** object in the document stencil of the target object's document whose 1-based index is _j_ is made. The EventDrop cell in the Events section of the new shape is not triggered. Use the **Drop** method instead if you want the EventDrop cell to trigger.
    
- If  _ObjectsToInstance(i)_ is the string _s_ (or a reference to the string _s_ ), an instance of the **Master** object with name _s_ in the document stencil of the target object's document is made; _s_ can equal either the **Master** object's **UniqueID** or **NameU** property. The EventDrop cell in the Events section of the new shape is not triggered. Use the **Drop** method instead if you want the EventDrop cell to be triggered.
    
- For  _vlb_ < _i_ <= _vub_ , if _ObjectsToInstance(i)_ is empty ( **Nothing** or uninitialized in Microsoft Visual Basic), entry _i_ will cause _ObjectsToInstance(j)_ to be instanced again, where _j_ is the largest value < _i_ such that _ObjectsToInstance(j)_ isn't empty. If you want to make _n_ instances of the same thing, only _ObjectsToInstance(vlb)_ needs to be provided.
    


The  _xyArray()_ parameter should be a one-dimensional array of 2 _m_ doubles with lower bound _xylb_ and upper bound _xyub_ , where _m_ >= _n_ . The values in the array tell the **DropManyU** method where to position the **Shape** objects it produces. _ObjectsToInstance(_ _vlb_ + ( _ i_ - 1)) is dropped at ( _xy_ [( _i_ - 1)2 + _xylb_ ], _xy_ [(i - 1)2 + _xylb_ + 1]) for 1 <= _i_ <= _n_ .

Note that  _m_ > _n_ is allowed. For _n_ < _i_ <= _m_ , the _i_ 'th thing instanced is the same thing as the _n_ 'th thing instanced. Thus to make _m_ >= 1 instances of the same thing, you can pass an _ObjectsToInstance()_ array with one entry and an _m_ entry _xyArray()_ array.

If the entity being instanced is a master, the pin of the new  **Shape** object is positioned at the given _xy_ . Otherwise, the center of the **Shape** objects is positioned at the given _xy_ .

The  **Integer** value returned by the **DropManyU** method is the number of _xy_ entries in _xyArray()_ that the **DropManyU** method successfully processed. If all entries were processed successfully, _m_ is returned. If some entries are successfully processed prior to an error occurring, the produced **Shape** objects are not deleted and this raises an exception but still returns a positive integer.

Presuming all  _m_ _xy_ entries are processed correctly, the number of new **Shape** objects produced by the **DropManyU** method is usually equal to _m_ . In rare cases (for example, if a **Selection** object gets instanced), more than _m_**Shape** objects may be produced. The caller can determine the number of produced **Shape** objects by comparing the number of shapes in the target object before and after the **DropManyU** method is executed. The caller can assert the new **Shape** objects are those with the highest indices in the target object's **Shapes** collection.

If the  **DropManyU** method returns zero (0), _IDArray()_ returns null ( **Nothing** ). Otherwise, it returns a one-dimensional array of _m_ integers indexed from 0 to _m_ - 1. _IDArray()_ is an out parameter that is allocated by the **DropManyU** method and ownership is passed to the program that called the **DropManyU** method. The caller should eventually perform the **SafeArrayDestroy** procedure on the returned array. (Microsoft Visual Basic and Visual Basic for Applications take care of this for you.)

If  _IDArray()_ returns non-null (not **Nothing** ), _IDArray_( _i_ - 1), 1 <= _i_ <= _intReturned_ , returns the ID of the **Shape** object produced by the _i_ 'th _xyArray()_ entry, provided the _i_ 'th _xyArray()_ entry produced exactly one **Shape** object. If the _i_ 'th _xyArray()_ entry produced multiple **Shape** objects, -1 is returned in the entry. All entries _i_ , _intReturned_ <= _i_ < _m_ , return -1.




 **Note**  Beginning with Microsoft Visio 2000, you can use both local and universal names to refer to Visio shapes, masters, documents, pages, rows, add-ons, cells, hyperlinks, styles, fonts, master shortcuts, UI objects, and layers. When a user names a shape, for example, the user is specifying a local name. Beginning with Microsoft Office Visio 2003, the ShapeSheet spreadsheet displays only universal names in cell formulas and values. (In prior versions, universal names were not visible in the user interface.) 

As a developer, you can use universal names in a program when you don't want to change a name each time a solution is localized. Use the  **DropMany** method to drop more than one shape when you are using local names to identify the shapes. Use the **DropManyU** method to drop more than one shape when you are using universal names to identify the shapes.


## Example

The following example shows how to use the  **DropManyU** method. It drops one instance of every master in the document stencil of the macro's **Document** object onto Page1 of the macro's **Document** object. Before running this macro, make sure there is at least one master in the document stencil.


```vb
 
Public Sub DropManyU_Example() 
 
 On Error GoTo HandleError 
 
 Dim vsoMasters As Visio.Masters 
 Dim intMasterCount As Integer 
 Set vsoMasters = ThisDocument.Masters 
 intMasterCount = vsoMasters.Count 
 
 ReDim varObjectsToInstance(1 To intMasterCount) As Variant 
 ReDim adblXYArray(1 To (intMasterCount * 2)) As Double 
 Dim intCounter As Integer 
 For intCounter = 1 To intMasterCount 
 
 'Pass universal name of object to drop to DropManyU. 
 varObjectsToInstance(intCounter) = vsoMasters.ItemU(intCounter).NameU 
 
 'Set x components of where to drop to 2,4,6,2,4,6,2,4,6,... 
 adblXYArray (intCounter * 2 - 1) = (((intCounter - 1) Mod 3) + 1) * 2 
 
 'Set y components to 2,2,2,4,4,4,6,6,6,... 
 adblXYArray (intCounter * 2) = Int((intCounter + 2) / 3) * 2 
 
 Next intCounter 
 
 Dim aintIDArray() As Integer 
 Dim intProcessed As Integer 
 
 intProcessed = ThisDocument.Pages(1).DropManyU(varObjectsToInstance, _ 
 adblXYArray, aintIDArray) 
 Debug.Print intProcessed 
 
 For intCounter = LBound(aintIDArray) To UBound(aintIDArray) 
 Debug.Print intCounter; aintIDArray(intCounter) 
 Next intCounter 
 
 Exit Sub 
 
 HandleError: 
 MsgBox "Error" 
 
 Exit Sub 
 
End Sub
```