Create alias (desktop shortcut) of an application installed by Macports

Question

I just installed Dia using macports.

Now, I need to place the shortcut in the Apps folder and also make the executable available in the Spotlight search.

How can I do that?

Thank

Answer 1

MacPorts installs it's applications by default in /opt/local. dia installs to /opt/local/bin/dia. Since the program is started from the command line and runs in X11, I suggest making an AppleScript program (or use Platypus) to do this for you. You can then save this program in the Applications folder so it can be found using Spotlight.

Sample AppleScript:

do shell script "/opt/local/bin/dia &"

Alternatively, a standalone application has been made by dia-installer.de that you can copy right into your Applications folder.