A first element in a graphical modeling environment is selected by a user which results in a plurality of speed buttons adjacent to the first element being displayed. Such speed buttons define operations to be conducted on the first element in connection with a second element. After one of the displayed speed buttons is selected, it can be dragged to a display point. A second element is generated at the display point based on the selected displayed speed button which is linked to the first element. The link can be characterized by the operations defined by the selected displayed speed button. Related techniques, apparatus, systems, and products are also described.