Using esri ModelBuilder

WyGEO ConferenceSeptember 17 & 18, 2015

Introduction

• About Me• Shawn Lanning (SGL55@uwyo.edu)

– GIS Research Scientist @ WyGISC– ModelBuilder Experience

• About You?• Name• ModelBuilder Experience• What you Hope to Learn

• Login Information– Username = gisconf– Passoword is GIS2015!

Outline/Goals for Workshop

• Why ModelBuilder?• When to Use ModelBuilder?• Basics of ModelBuilder• Using Tools in ModelBuilder

– Exercise 1• Converting Your Workflow into a Tool

– Exercise 2• Additional Capabilities of ModelBuilder (as time permits)• Wrap-Up and Questions

Why ModelBuilder?

• Well, What is ModelBuilder?– ModelBuilder has been called a visual

programming language or a tool to make “visual scripts.” • A model can be navigated (it has direction built in). • A model uses shape, color, text, and symbols to

represent and communicate about its features. • A model reveals data relationships that can spark

ideas and collaboration.

When ModelBuilder?

• OK, So what is it good for?– Creating reusable tools– Creating a documentable workflow– “Set-it and Forget It”– Complex Spatial Analysis– Workflows that you’d prefer to run after hours

ModelBuilder Basics

Make a Plan and Think Backwards• Think about your ultimate goal (What is your final

product? Why question are you trying to answer?)• Take the time to list out each data input and

geoprocessing tools and steps you will need• Sketch or list the workflow you envision to make sure

you have covered all the steps

ModelBuilder Basics

2. Create a Toolbox to store your Model(s)• Right-click a folder (or within ArcToolbox) in the

ArcMap Catalog window and choose New > Toolbox

3. Create a new Model Container• Right-click the new toolbox and choose New > Model• Set Model Parameters (Model Menu > Properties)

ModelBuilder Basics

4. Add Tools and Data• Drag and Drop or Use the Add Button

Key’s to Remember When building a model1. Models consist of at least 1 input, tool, and output2. Selected Data does impact the model (tools will only run on the selected portion

of data)3. Intermediate data can be deleted

5. Set Parameters• Especially if the same model will be run on different

datasets (we will discuss this further later)

ModelBuilder Basics

2. Validate the Model• ModelBuilder will run through your Model and make

sure that all of the process steps are correct or stop at the step that needs fixing

3. Run the Model

Demo and Exercise 1

Demo Model Basics

Exercise 1 – Executing tools in ModelBuilder

http://desktop.arcgis.com/en/desktop/latest/analyze/executing-tools/executing-tools-in-modelbuilder-tutorial.htm

Making Your Workflow a Model Tool

• Now that we have created a model and run it within the ModelBuilder Dialog lets take it one step further.

• Why might being able to run a Model as a Toolbox Tool be useful?

• Quick Demo of Running a Model as a Tool

Making Your Workflow a Model Tool

• Parameters, Parameters, Parameters!– Are what allow the model to work as a tool– They allow change– Can be set for inputs, outputs, and tools!

Tips:• Parameters can be reorganized to display to your liking in the user

interface• Think of the end user when setting parameters• Sometimes less is more

Demo and Exercise 2

Demo of Parameters

Exercise 2 – Creating tools with ModelBuilder

http://desktop.arcgis.com/en/desktop/latest/analyze/creating-tools/creating-tool-with-modelbuilder-tutorial.htm

Tips and Advance Techniques

• Keep your layout “clean”– Full Extent– Auto Layout– Rename Inputs, Tools, and Outputs

• Advanced Techniques– Automation

• http://blogs.esri.com/esri/esritrainingmatters/2014/08/28/modelbuilder-360-amp-up-the-automation/

– Running a Model to Run at Specific Time• http://blogs.esri.com/esri/arcgis/2013/07/30/scheduling-a-scrip/

Questions

• Questions?• Comments/Feedback• Contact:

Shawn Lanning SGL55@uwyo.edu

Nick Graf: There have been a few pages to help and update people on Josephine Graf's condition.

• Fundraising campaign for Josephine Graf's Aicardi Fund: http://de.gofund.me/fw487y7s

• There is also a CaringBridge page to update people on her condition. http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/josephinesjourney