Maximizing ArcGIS Pro for Data Visualization: New Tools and techniques for More Insightful Maps
As organizations continue the migration from ArcMap to ArcGIS Pro, many users are discovering how the new platform significantly enhances their ability to visualize and analyze data. ArcGIS Pro is designed with a range of powerful tools that go beyond what was possible in ArcMap, allowing users to create more engaging, dynamic, and insightful maps. In this article, we’ll explore some of the key visualization features in ArcGIS Pro and provide tips on how to maximize their potential.
1. Advanced Symbology Options
One of the standout features in ArcGIS Pro is its improved symbology capabilities. With a more user-friendly interface and a wider range of symbol types, you can create visually compelling maps that communicate data trends more effectively. In addition to traditional symbology, Pro allows for:
- Customizable gradients and color ramps that help show intensity or distribution patterns more clearly.
- Multivariate symbols that combine multiple data attributes in one symbol, useful for complex datasets.
- Symbol layering, which allows users to stack different symbols for a single feature to represent various attributes.
2. 3D Visualization for New Perspectives
ArcGIS Pro's 3D capabilities offer a dynamic way to analyze and present geospatial data. With built-in support for 3D scenes, you can display and interact with your data in a more intuitive, real-world format.
- Use elevation surfaces to represent terrain variations or building heights.
- Utilize extruded features to show the volume of data points (such as population or pollution levels) in a 3D space.
- Easily switch between 2D and 3D views to give your audience multiple perspectives on the same data.
3. Dynamic Labels and Annotations
ArcGIS Pro simplifies the process of labeling features dynamically, ensuring labels adjust automatically to zoom levels, scale, and data changes. Pro’s dynamic labeling engine is more advanced than in ArcMap, offering:
- Placement options to prevent label overlaps and collisions.
- Interactive label creation with live updates as you modify your map, saving you from endless adjustments.
- Labeling expressions using Arcade or Python for more precise and data-driven labels.
4. Time-Series Visualizations and Animations
For data that changes over time, ArcGIS Pro makes it easy to create time-series visualizations and animations. You can set time-enabled layers, then use the animation tools to step through data and watch it evolve. This is perfect for visualizing changes in land use, population growth, or environmental conditions over time.
- Time sliders let you quickly review how your data changes across the timeline.
- Export animations to videos or share them as web maps for broader dissemination.
5. Multiple Layouts and Map Perspectives
Unlike ArcMap, where each project was limited to one layout, ArcGIS Pro allows for multiple layouts within a single project. This feature is particularly useful for users who need to generate different map perspectives for various audiences or print outputs.
- Create side-by-side layouts to show contrasting data or analysis results.
- Use linked views to simultaneously pan and zoom on multiple maps, providing a synchronized view of different datasets.
6. Incorporating Live Data and Dashboards
ArcGIS Pro integrates seamlessly with ArcGIS Online (AGOL), making it easy to pull in real-time data feeds such as traffic, weather, or social media activity. Coupled with the dashboard creation tools, you can transform static maps into interactive applications that respond to live data.
- Use ArcGIS Dashboards to create a real-time operational view for decision-makers.
- Display live sensor feeds or satellite data to give users real-time insights.
7. Automating Visualizations with Python
ArcGIS Pro’s built-in support for Python scripting means you can automate the creation of complex visualizations. By leveraging ArcPy and Pro’s advanced symbology methods, you can dynamically generate maps and layouts based on incoming data or predefined conditions.
- Write scripts to automatically update symbology when new data arrives.
- Create batch processing scripts to export multiple visualizations in different formats or resolutions.
With these visualization tools and techniques, ArcGIS Pro offers a wealth of opportunities to enhance how you present your geospatial data. By exploring and mastering these features, you can create maps that not only look great but also convey deeper insights.
Resource(s):
https://resources.esri.ca/arcgis-pro/advanced-symbology-in-arcgis-pro-2
https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/7a4b2da8b599412fb6a00f443f127f87
https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/help/mapping/navigation/overview-of-3d-navigation.htm
https://hub.arcgis.com/documents/delaware::3d-visualization-using-arcgis-pro/about
https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/help/mapping/text/label-with-the-standard-label-engine.htm
https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/help/mapping/text/labeling-basics.htm
https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/get-started/visualize-temporal-data.htm
Tools that are not available in ArcGIS Pro: https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/tool-reference/appendices/unavailable-tools.htm
We hope that this article has been helpful! If you have any feedback or questions, please feel free to send us an email or connect with us for a chat. The NTGISC team is here to assist you further!