topic Re: Is it possible to convert to a network aware shapefile? in ArcGIS Network Analyst Questions

Is it possible to convert to a network aware shapefile?

AaronSchuck — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 20:05:40 GMT

I have line data that I want to start using as a network. I know when you first create a shapefile, you can make it so that your linework will have M values which allow you to store route data.

Does anyone know if there's a way to convert a line shapefile that didn't start out with M values, into one that does have M values?

Re: Is it possible to convert to a network aware shapefile?

DonovanCameron — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 20:10:16 GMT

I wonder if you could use the Feature Class to Feature Class tool, and in the environment settings enable the Output has M Values parameter.

Let me know if that works.

Re: Is it possible to convert to a network aware shapefile?

JaySandhu — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 14:54:29 GMT

If your goal is to use the lines for network analysis such as shortest path finding, etc, then you do not need to have M values on your line data. For network analysis, you need to make a network dataset from the lines for further analysis with the Network Analyst extension. If your goal is to do utility type work such as upstream/downstream tracing, then you need to create a geometric network and use the Utility Network Analysis toolbar.

The M values are needed for linear referencing/dynamic segmentation type work. You can use the GP tools such as Create Routes or Calibrate Routes to convert lines without M into lines with M.

Regards,
Jay Sandhu

Re: Is it possible to convert to a network aware shapefile?

AaronSchuck — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 17:28:01 GMT

My thanks to both of you for your help/suggestions. The ESRI forums have not disappointed me so far, I've always gotten an answer within a day or two!