Navigating Common Issues When Transitioning From ArcMap to ArcGIS Pro
As Esri continues to phase out ArcMap and shift focus to ArcGIS Pro, many GIS users are finding themselves navigating the complexities of transitioning to the newer platform. While ArcGIS Pro offers a range of enhanced features and capabilities, it also introduces challenges in compatibility, data formats, and workflows. This article explores some of the most common issues encountered when migrating data, maps, and workflows between ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro, with a focus on geodatabases, shapefiles, rasters, and more.
1. Personal Geodatabases (.mdb): The End of an Era
One of the first challenges users face is the lack of support for personal geodatabases (.mdb) in ArcGIS Pro. ArcMap has long allowed users to store spatial data in Microsoft Access-based personal geodatabases, but ArcGIS Pro has discontinued support for this format. Users now need to convert their data into file geodatabases (.gdb) or enterprise geodatabases to continue using them in ArcGIS Pro.
Solution: Before migrating to ArcGIS Pro, convert any .mdb files into .gdb format using ArcMap or export the data to shapefiles and re-import it into a file geodatabase in Pro.
2. Shapefiles: Continuing Support, But With Limits
While shapefiles (.shp) are supported in both ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro, they come with significant limitations in terms of attribute name length, field types, and overall performance. ArcGIS Pro encourages users to adopt geodatabases due to shapefiles' restrictions on things like:
- 10-character field names.
- No support for domains, subtypes, or attachments.
- Slower performance with large datasets.
Solution: If you're still relying heavily on shapefiles, consider migrating your data into geodatabases to leverage the full potential of ArcGIS Pro’s advanced features.
3. Raster Data: Format and Performance Considerations
Rasters have long been a critical component of GIS workflows, but users should be aware that certain legacy raster formats, such as .aux, .hdr, and .img files, may behave differently or not work as smoothly in ArcGIS Pro. While the software supports most raster formats, certain older formats may require conversion or updated workflows.
Solution: Evaluate the raster formats in your existing projects and, if necessary, convert them to formats that ArcGIS Pro handles more efficiently, such as .tif or .gdb raster datasets.
4. Map Documents (.mxd): Importing and Adjusting
One of the most visible changes between ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro is the transition from .mxd files (ArcMap map documents) to .aprx files (ArcGIS Pro project files). While ArcGIS Pro allows users to import .mxd files, there maybe issues with symbology, labeling, or even the overall structure of the map. Certain settings may not carry over, requiring manual adjustments.
Solution: After importing an .mxd into ArcGIS Pro, thoroughly review the project’s symbology, labels, and layout to ensure everything is displayed as expected. Make the necessary updates using ArcGIS Pro’s updated symbology tools.
5. Geoprocessing Models and Tools: Tool Updates and Deprecated Features
Several geoprocessing tools have changed or been deprecated between ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro. Users may find that models, scripts, or workflows they built in ArcMap do not function as expected in ArcGIS Pro. This is especially common with custom models built in ModelBuilder, which may include tools that no longer exist in Pro.
Solution: Review and update any geoprocessing models or scripts. If necessary, rework them to fit ArcGIS Pro’s new tools and workflows. Tools that are no longer supported may need replacement with updated alternatives.
6. Python Scripts: Updating from Python 2.x to Python 3.x
Another significant change is the switch from Python 2.x in ArcMap to Python3.x in ArcGIS Pro. Many Python scripts created for ArcMap may not work in ArcGIS Pro without modification due to differences in syntax, libraries, and ArcPy functions.
Solution: Go through each of your Python scripts and update them to work with Python 3.x. You may need to rewrite sections that rely on older ArcPy functions or workflows that no longer exist in Pro.
7. Layer Files (.lyr) and Symbology Changes
Layer files (.lyr) in ArcMap might not carry over seamlessly into ArcGISPro. The newer platform uses .lyrx files and may handle symbology differently. In some cases, advanced symbology options in ArcMap might not transfer perfectly into ArcGIS Pro, leading to a need for manual adjustments.
Solution: After importing .lyr files, review and update symbology in ArcGIS Pro. If needed, recreate layers in the new format to take full advantage of Pro’s updated symbology options.
8. Annotation and Labeling Differences
ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro handle annotation feature classes and dynamic labeling differently, which could cause issues with projects that rely heavily on custom annotations. Imported annotations might not behave as expected, and dynamic labeling may require adjustments.
Solution: Review annotations and labeling settings after importing them into ArcGIS Pro. In some cases, it may be necessary to recreate annotations using Pro’s updated tools for better results.
9. Parcel Fabric: Significant Changes
For users working with parcel fabric datasets, ArcGIS Pro introduces significant changes. The new parcel fabric system in Pro is more advanced and offers improved functionality, but data created using the ArcMap system may need to be migrated to work with the new tools.
Solution: If you’re working with parcel fabric data, follow Esri’s migration guidelines to convert your data to ArcGIS Pro’s updated system: https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/help/data/parcel-editing/upgradeparcelfabric.htm
10. Projection and Transformation Differences
There can be subtle differences in how ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro handle projections and transformations. In some cases, workflows that involve multiple coordinate systems might not produce identical results in both platforms.
Solution: Double-check projection and transformation settings in ArcGIS Pro, especially when working with data that spans different coordinate systems.
Transitioning from ArcMap to ArcGIS Pro brings both opportunities and challenges. While ArcGIS Pro provides powerful new tools and improved performance, there are numerous data and workflow considerations to keep in mind. By proactively addressing issues with geodatabases, shapefiles, rasters, and custom workflows, users can make the transition smoother and take full advantage of ArcGIS Pro’s advanced capabilities.
If you’re planning a migration, start by auditing your current ArcMap projects, identifying any potential issues, and preparing your data and workflows for the move. With careful planning, the transition can be a rewarding step toward more efficient and effective GIS work.
Resource(s):
https://mediaspace.esri.com/media/t/1_k7xgpu1s/245890782
https://cosol.global/migrating-from-arcmap-to-arcgis-pro-concerns-vs-reality/
https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/get-started/arcmap-frequently-asked-questions.htm
Tools that are not available in ArcGIS Pro: https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/tool-reference/appendices/unavailable-tools.htm
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