How can you simplify GIS workflows?

1 Automate repetitive tasks

One of the most effective ways to simplify your GIS workflows is to automate the tasks that you perform frequently or regularly, such as data conversion, analysis, mapping, or reporting. Automation can reduce manual work, eliminate human errors, and speed up your processes. You can use various tools and methods to automate your GIS workflows, such as scripting languages, model builders, batch processing, or scheduling. For example, you can use Python to write custom scripts that perform complex geoprocessing operations, or you can use ArcGIS ModelBuilder to create graphical models that execute a series of tools and parameters.

2 Organize your data and files

Another way to simplify your GIS workflows is to organize your data and files in a logical and consistent way, so that you can easily access, manage, and share them. You can use folders, subfolders, naming conventions, metadata, and data formats to structure your data and files, and avoid duplication, confusion, or loss. You can also use geodatabases, which are containers that store and organize spatial and non-spatial data, and support various data types, such as feature classes, tables, raster datasets, or network datasets. Geodatabases can help you maintain data integrity, enforce rules and relationships, and optimize performance and storage.

3 Use templates and standards

A third way to simplify your GIS workflows is to use templates and standards that can help you create consistent and quality outputs, such as maps, charts, reports, or web applications. Templates and standards can save you time and effort, as you do not have to start from scratch or reinvent the wheel every time you need to produce an output. You can use templates and standards that are provided by your software, organization, or industry, or you can create your own custom ones. For example, you can use ArcGIS Online templates to create web maps and apps that follow best practices and design principles, or you can create your own map templates that include predefined layers, symbols, layouts, and labels.

4 Document and communicate your workflows

A fourth way to simplify your GIS workflows is to document and communicate your workflows, so that you can keep track of your steps, results, and decisions, and share them with others. Documenting and communicating your workflows can help you avoid confusion, errors, or gaps, and ensure that your workflows are transparent, reproducible, and collaborative. You can use various tools and methods to document and communicate your workflows, such as flowcharts, diagrams, notes, comments, or annotations. For example, you can use ArcGIS Pro to create project packages that include your data, maps, layouts, tools, and settings, and share them with other users or platforms.

5 Review and optimize your workflows

A fifth way to simplify your GIS workflows is to review and optimize your workflows, so that you can identify and address any issues, inefficiencies, or improvements, and ensure that your workflows are meeting your goals and expectations. Reviewing and optimizing your workflows can help you enhance your quality, performance, and productivity, and adapt to changing needs and requirements. You can use various tools and methods to review and optimize your workflows, such as testing, debugging, logging, or benchmarking. For example, you can use ArcGIS Pro to run validation checks on your tools and models, or you can use ArcGIS Monitor to monitor and analyze your system performance and usage.

6 Learn and update your skills

A sixth way to simplify your GIS workflows is to learn and update your skills, so that you can keep up with the latest trends, technologies, and techniques in the GIS field, and leverage the full potential of your software and tools. Learning and updating your skills can help you expand your capabilities, discover new possibilities, and solve new challenges. You can use various resources and opportunities to learn and update your skills, such as courses, tutorials, blogs, forums, webinars, or conferences. For example, you can use Esri Training to access free and paid online courses on various GIS topics and software, or you can use Esri Events to attend virtual or in-person events that showcase GIS innovations and best practices.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?