I'm currently exploring the various methods for exporting a Utility Network, and I'd greatly appreciate your insights and experiences on this topic.
From my point of view:
XML Export: It seems like a solid choice for exporting an entire GDB, including the UN and associated feature classes or tables. It's a single file, which seems less prone to corruption compared to a file GDB presented as a normal folder.
Asset Package: This method appears useful for exporting the UN (or the entire GDB) and is great for updating or altering network properties. However, I'm a bit uncertain about using this solely for taking a backup of the UN because it creates a .gdb. Therefore, I'm considering exporting an XML file from the asset package to create a more secure, non-editable backup.
Copy & Paste: As far as I understand, this method is suitable for duplicating a UN from one GDB to another, and it seems to lack significant advantages or disadvantages.
However, I'm eager to hear from all of you! What are your preferred methods for exporting a Utility Network? Are there scenarios where one method stands out as better than the others? Do you have any insights, tips, or tricks to share?