Multiple columns in the new Activity Diagram (flow chart)

Question

I'm trying to use plantuml to create a flow chart.  My current diagram is more than 30 lines long.  This makes a very long and narrow flow chart.

1.  How can I use multiple columns (swimlanes don't work).

for example:

<previous code>

:calculate result

NewColumn

:Output result

<following code>

2.  How can I control what goes on the left or the right

3.  Suggestion:  Add the ability to use different flow chart symbols (output, input, off page, etc.)

Answer 1

Hello M.,

• What do you mean with `<previous code>` and `<following code>`?

1/ Here is an attempt:

@startuml
label l1 [
{{
:<previous code>;
:calculate result;
}}
]

label l2 [
{{
:Output result;
:<following code>;
}}
]
@enduml

2/ By definition of separate label, compare:

Code	Output
@startuml label l1 [ {{ :a1; :a2; }} ] label l2 [ {{ :b1; :b2; }} ] @enduml
@startuml label l1 [ {{ :a1; :a2; }} {{ :b1; :b2; }} ] @enduml

3/ See Specification and Description Language (SDL):

• https://plantuml.com/en/activity-diagram-beta#7420c7766a064a28

If that can help,
Regards,
Th.