Top 5 Mistakes GIS Users Make When Organizing Their Geodatabases

1. Mixing coordinate systems in a single feature dataset

Feature datasets require all feature classes to share the exact same coordinate system. Mixing them causes errors or prevents data from being added.

2. Failing to name datasets clearly

Vague or inconsistent naming makes it hard to understand what the data represents. Always use names that are descriptive, concise, and standardized.

3. Storing everything at the root level (no folders or logical structure)

Without structure, large geodatabases become difficult to navigate. Use feature datasets and folders to logically organize by theme or project.

4. Overusing shapefiles instead of geodatabase formats

Shapefiles are limited (e.g., no support for domains, long field names, subtypes) and not ideal for modern GIS workflows.

5. Ignoring domains and subtypes to enforce valid values

Not using domains leads to inconsistent data entry. Set up coded or range domains to maintain data integrity and reduce errors.

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!