Consistent path and filename parameters in GP tools

Bud

Edit: ArcGIS Pro 2.6.8

If I understand correctly:

Some geoprocessing tools have separate parameters for the path and filename. Other GP tools have a single parameter for the path and filename combined.

That seems inconsistent. When I'm in a hurry, I often assume a tool uses one convention, but it actually uses the other. So the value I entered is incorrect, causing frustration.

For example, Spatial Join has the path and filename combined into a single parameter: "Output Feature Class".

Whereas the Export Features tool splits the path and filename into separate parameters: "Output Location" and "Output Name".

I wonder if more consistency in this area would make it easier for new GIS users to pick up ArcGIS Pro, rather than fiddling with the output parameters.

Feel free to let me know if I've missed something.

 

BarryNorthey

AGP works with the notion of a workspace and base name, often displaying just the base name to make things "fit" the display and easier to adjust.

Under Options --> Application

Display data paths as shortened names

This option controls whether geoprocessing tool parameters that contain a dataset path are displayed as a shortened name.

• Checked—Dataset paths are displayed as a shortened name, and you can click the shortened name to see the full dataset path. This is the default.
• Unchecked—Full dataset paths are always displayed.

As for your lower screen shot, I am not sure if this is a version thing as my 3.1.0 shows this :