The ArcGIS Pro ModelBuilder is very similar to ModelBuilder in the other ArcGIS Desktop applications. The model diagram view is similar, and you build the models by adding data and geoprocessing tools by connecting them to shape processes. In ArcGIS Pro, you can view, edit, and run models that you have built in previous versions of ArcGIS Desktop.
Despite these similarities, there are some differences. Knowing these differences will facilitate your migration to ModelBuilder in ArcGIS Pro.
Let’s see some important points.
Versions compatibility
Firstly, as with any application, let’s look at the compatibility aspects among different versions. ArcGis Pro Model Builder should be considered as the latest version of Model Builder. Respecting an intangible rule, we will have an Ascending Compatibility. That is, you can run existing models made with Model Builder 10.3, 10.2, 10.1 … in ArcGis Pro, but you will not be able to run a model made or saved with ArcGis Pro in other Desktop applications. . To use an ArcGis Pro model in another application, DO NOT USE THE SAVE BUTTON, or SAVE AS, IN THE RIBBON. In the geoprocessor window, right-click the toolbox where you want to save the model, and select Save As, and select the version where you want to have the model:
Elements connection
The selection, movement, and the interconnection of elements is always done with the same tool, unlike other Model Builder versions where there are two separate tools.
- To select an item, move the cursor over the item and click.
- To move an item, select it, click and move with the cursor.
To connect one element to another, the element must not be selected, move the cursor over the element (the cursor takes the form of a hand), click the item and move to the item to connect. Release the mouse on the latter; a window appears to define the correspondence of the attached element with the various possibilities of the tool.
What is not present in ArcGis Pro Model Builder
The Add to map (Add to display) no longer exists. In order for the model output to be loaded in the map window you must define the output layer as the model parameter. In this case, it is automatically added to the map.
Intermediate and Managed Data Options no longer exist. According
to the mode of execution:
-If you run the model from the model window, all intermediate layers are
preserved,
-If you run the model from the geoprocessor window, all intermediate data is
automatically erased.
Lists and sets no longer exist. You must replace them with iterators.
What you have to restring
If your models contain the tool “Calculate Field”, do not forget that the VB syntax no longer exists in ArcGis Pro. It is necessary to modify the expressions to convert them in Python. Then save the modified model.
