QOL improvements for construct polygons modify tool

Question

I'm always using Construct polygons tool on modify since it's quick and more seamless than having to do append or the daunting copy-paste process. But as interesting as it is, it still lacks functionality?

For example, why does it explode the source feature? If I'm copying a multipart feature from one layer to another, I want it to remain a multipart, not be exploded in the process.

And also, why does it fill the gaps on the source features by creating a new feature? Same thing, why would I want it to fill the gaps that aren't part of anything in the first place?

Perhaps I'm misusing the construct polygons as a copy-paste tool? Because it would be really cool to have one like that, even though I feel like construct polygons gets 90% of the job done.

jbcypreste · Answer

This sounds like a very niche use for construct polygons, I think it would benefit more if the copy/paste options were integrated into it. Paste special is okay but there are too many steps (specially when attributes/fields aren't relevant) and slow when dealing with large geometries.

Scott_Harris · Answer

Hi @jbcypreste

The Construct Polygons tool creates a polygon feature for each closed boundary formed by selected lines and/or polygon features (both can be inputs). A common use case: you have a closed loop of lines that you want to convert into a polygon. I wouldn't recommend Construct Polygons as an alternative to Paste Special.