Python Scripting for Geoprocessing Workflows (for ArcGIS 10)

Description

This course teaches how to create Python scripts to automate ArcGIS geoprocessing tasks, increasing productivity and efficiencies in GIS workflows. You will work with ArcPy, the Esri-developed site package for Python that integrates Python scripts into ArcGIS Desktop.

Who Should Attend

GIS analysts, specialists, data processors, and other experienced ArcGIS users.

Learn How To

• Apply a workflow to create valid Python scripts.
• Specify geoprocessing environment settings in a script.
• Access lists of datasets and loop through lists to test for a condition.
• Use proper Python syntax to run analysis tools, join data, select features, and calculate field values.
• Create dynamic scripts that allow users to interactively specify their own parameter values.
• Create tools to share your Python scripts.

To complete course exercises, you need the following software:

• ArcGIS 10.0 for Desktop (ArcView, ArcEditor, or ArcInfo)
• PythonWin 2.6

Note: PythonWin 2.6 is included on the ArcGIS Desktop 10 installation package but is not installed by default.

Describing and listing data

• Common scripting workflow
• Setting geoprocessing environments
• Describing GIS data
• Complete the Python script
• Creating lists of GIS data
• Use a feature class list for geoprocessing

Reading and creating data

• Accessing data using cursors
• Getting and setting values
• Complete the Python script
• Using cursors to access geometry
• Choose the appropriate type of cursor
• Use Python to create buffers around forest roads
• Union the buffers to complete the treatment areas

Turning your script into a tool

• Making your scripts dynamic
• Workflow to create a script tool
• Create a script tool

• Completion of ArcGIS Desktop II: Tools and Functionality or Learning ArcGIS Desktop or equivalent knowledge is required.
• Completion of Basics of Python (for ArcGIS 10) or equivalent knowledge is required.