Attribute data in a geodatabase

Question

In a geodatabase, is it feasible to maintain most or all of the attribute data in a related table separate from the feature class? If yes, would it be a problem if there were no matching records in the attribute table? Could the relate or join be permenant so the attribute data is always readily available?

Here's my situation. There is a feature class containing many construction projects. I want to build a map service (feature service) that displays some but not all of these projects. The projects to be displayed and their attribute data will be based on the data in a separate table (presently a dbf) that changes frequently. The data in this table (and the table itself) is generated by a separate program. So the idea is, rather than replace the entire feature class in the geodatabase, I could just replace the table (possibly by an automated script) and everything would be updated.

Would this work and how would I set it up?
Thanks

jskinner · Answer

I believe that I am trying to do something similar in Arcsde 10.  I am trying to use a stand alone table with updated property ownership changes lined to parcel account numbers.  Would a "relate" know to replace certain attribute fields with the data from the stand alone table?   Is this something that would require a script?  I'm not very versed in scripting yet but wouldn't mind giving it a shot.

The relate will only link the feature class to the stand alone table using a primary and foreign key so when you select a parcel, you can see all the related information in the stand alone table.

Are you looking to have attributes in the feature class update from the related table attributes?

deleted-user-OvQ2biYmIWQS · Answer

I believe that I am trying to do something similar in Arcsde 10.  I am trying to use a stand alone table with updated property ownership changes lined to parcel account numbers.  Would a "relate" know to replace certain attribute fields with the data from the stand alone table?   Is this something that would require a script?  I'm not very versed in scripting yet but wouldn't mind giving it a shot.

DonFreeman · Answer

With the relate, if you add the service to ArcMap and use the identify tool you can drill down to the related dbf table.  I have not tested this with a web application though.

Actually, I was able to get it to work with a join. I just had to preface the fieldname with the table reference in the maptip. <TextBlock Text="{Binding [TIP_PROPOSED.ST_NAME]}" Foreground="Black" />

Thanks