Fallback label class if the default label cannot be placed?

Question

Hello,

Is there a way to control the labels for a layer such that if the default label class does not fit at all to try to use a different class if and only if the default label class could not be placed on the map

Example:

Default Class

* Use both the parcel numbers and owner names for the label.
* Try to fit the label in the parcel by reducing the font size and abbreviating if necessary.

Small Parcel Class (Try to use this class ONLY If the default label was not placed)

* Use only part of the parcel number for the label.
* Try to fit the label in the parcel by reducing the font size and abbreviating if the text.

Thanks

BruceLang · Answer

I'm looking for a solution too.  A Maplex "alternate labels" option, within the fitting strategy tab, would help tremendously.

I hope more than one alternative would be offered too.

LyonMNGIS · Answer

Wendy,

Thank you for confirming.  I think it would be useful so I added it to the ideas center.  For now I will move ahead with doing the best I can with the current options.

Sincerely,

Mark Volz

WendyHarrison · Answer

Hi Mark,

We don't have the ability to do this at the moment.  Using the Abbreviation dictionary to swap out words if the first option doesn't fit would be the closest we have.

thanks

Wendy