Incorrect Domain Field Types

Question

I have a geodatabase built in ArcMap from a few years ago that I am trying to use in ArcGIS Pro. The database has roughly 75 domains associated with it that I would like to preserve. My problem is that they are all in the text field type which cannot be modified, and I need about half of them to be integers so that they can be used as Subtypes for feature classes.

Is there an efficient way to create new domains with the old values in the correct field type?

curtvprice · Answer

This does sound like an appropriate use of subtypes, but a complex data design is not without cost. I do recommend you do data design from scratch and then load data into the new data model, much easier than trying to retrofit a data model in-place.

Another thing to consider if the main use case for the domains is field data collection is Survey123 with XLSForms, this allows a lot of flexibility for a complex data collection task, for example if you choose a certain type of object, you can make fields that are not needed disappear from the form experience so they aren't in the way. The XLSForms programming is not trivial but if you get it working it makes the data collection user experience really easy and simple.

Anonymous User · Answer

This GDB was created by a GIS novice, so it was probably always going to be a bit clunkier than it needed to be.

It's an archaeological inventory that is intended to be used in Collector/Field Maps. So, the idea is that the feature classes (there are about 15 of those), are the general categories (structures, ceramics, lithics, etc.). The subtypes are subcategories (for ceramic: grey ware, red ware, etc.) which with there are specific domain options based on the subcategory chosen.

The subtypes allow us to maximize use of drop down menus that give us consistent values, while minimizing the number of feature classes. Without them our drop down menus would be massive.

Anonymous User · Answer

Something like this was what I was anticipating.

Thanks for the suggestion!