Align Objects should allow you to select which object to align to

[FoxSquirrel]

So, when using Align Objects, LabVIEW autimatically aligns all the objects selected either with the topmost object or the leftmost object depending on the type of aligning.  It would be nice if there was a way to select which object to align to.

[fabric]

Like the first one selected? Kinda obvious huh? Kudos.

[Darin.K]

I actually prefer the algorithm which minimizes motion.  For example if everything is already aligned except one, only that one moves.  

[fabric]

Darin: Makes it hard if you *want* to align everything hard-left, for example, if most objects are sitting a little to the right...

[SnowMule]

I'd like to see an "Align by error wire".  I know the auto-cleanup makes that a priority, but sometimes I just want a couple of objects snapped to that (Serial VI's and Property nodes, I'm looking at you). 

http://forums.ni.com/t5/LabVIEW-Idea-Exchange/Align-Objects-by-Error-Wire/idi-p/1744346

[altenbach]

It should also try to minimize resulting overlap with other code elements. For example if the topmost object is above a FOR loop and the rest of the objects to the left of the FOR loop, a vertical alignment will float all other elements on top of the FOR loop, while it should rather mostly move the topmost object to the left instead.

[johnsold]

Some graphics programs I have used (actually, all except LV) have an anchor point option.  Some call them reference points. You can place an anchor point on the drawing and no action of the program will move it. If LV had such an object, it could be placed where the alignment is intended to go and the other objects aligned to it.  It would not be a visible object when running.

Lynn

[Pie566942.0]

I prefer the first selected (Visio style).  I could use an anchor point, but that seems like more for me (to place the anchor).  I always have my grid turned on, and I might also like the ability to <key> + click a gridline » Align Selected Objects to Gridline. -Steve K