5 tips to change the way you store and analyse datasets

1.  Data storage:  Different data types are useful for different things.  For example, a highly compressed image may be useful for viewing aerial photography of a large area, but isn't useful for analysis.  An ESRI Grid file, even though it may be larger, is better for analysis, as you can store attributes (like a vector feature class), and is already in the correct format for any kind of map algebra, or interpolation for example.  The key is to think of what you need the data for, and choose one of the formats available.  A full list of available raster types is on the ESRI website.  

2. ArcGIS has an efficient method for storing the output from Lidar.  The most efficient method is to generate a file geodatabase, then convert your Lidar file to a Multipoint feature class.  This will store multiple points with the same value in one row of the attribute table, making for efficient storage.  Then you can generate a Terrain feature class, an on-the-fly elevation surface.  Then you can generate slope and aspect maps etc. 

3.  When using ArcMap for ArcPad, try to generate a Mobile Base Map of all the base data not actively edited.  The tool is Create Mobile Base Map.  This will generate .sdc maps which can be used in ArcPad.

4. When performing raster analysis with Spatial Analyst, data is converted to ESRI GRID format to perform analysis.  If your data isn’t in this format, it will be converted to GRID, perhaps resampled, then used for analysis.  This will increase your processing speed significantly.  If using your data for analysis, keep it in GRID format, same cell size (resolution), and make your processing as effective as possible.

5. Think about storing your data as a Raster Catalog.  This data can be managed or unmanaged.  Managed data in the Raster Catalog means that the raster data storage in a file geodatabase is as it would be in ArcSDE, making sourcing and displaying the data more efficient.  Unmanaged Raster Catalogs mean that the data is merely referenced to their original saved source.  Click here for more information about Managing raster catalogs.  

Writing Advanced Geoprocessing Scripts using Python

If you've sat on the Introduction to Geoprocessing Scripts using Python and have been working with python scripts then Writing Advanced Geoprocessing Scripts using Python provides the next logical step to expand your knowledge of working with Python scripting within the ArcGIS environment.

Next courses:

• Melbourne - 1-3 June
• Perth  - 29 June-1 July

Find out more about the course

New schedule now available

The July - December 2010 training schedule is now available.

Check out what courses are running in your state throughout the year

You might need to re-generate your ESRI user profile

Are you having problems with ArcGIS that none of your colleagues are experiencing such as performance and speed but when another user logs into your machine these problems disappear? 

It could be your ESRI User Profile has become corrupted and needs to be re-generated.

The first time a user opens an ESRI application (for example ArcMap, ArcCatalog or ArcReader) an ESRI folder is created on your computer's hard drive. Then each time you move a toolbar, add in a tool or change your options and preferences, this information gets stored within this folder. Through time, more and more "information" is stored in the ESRI User Profile increasing the chances of it become corrupted and a new profile needs to be created.

Read through the instructions below, or check out the video to see how easy it is to re-generate your profile.

To create an ESRI User Profile re-name the existing one so a new profile can be created once you open an ArcGIS application. Re-naming means your old settings are still there in case you need them.

Your ESRI User Profile is stored in the following locations depending on your operating system.
     For Windows 2000 & XP:
     C:\Documents & Settings\username\Application Data\ESRI

     For Vista:
     C:\Users\<user_account>\AppData\Roaming\ESRI

If you cannot find one of these folders on your computer then it may be hidden. To view them you will have to go to the "Tools" menu. Select "Folder Options". Go to the "View" tab and make sure that "Show hidden files and folders" is selected.

Note: Some users may not have the administration privileges to access the ESRI User Profile and you will have to contact your IT department.