Provide an open toolbox XML format

[Nicholas_ISeigal]

Frequent users of  Model Builder will have experienced toolboxes and models that become corrupt and cannot be opened. This is a very serious problem and can result in a great loss of work or possibly the permanent loss of valuable intellectual property.

As has been suggested for MXD files (see https://community.esri.com/ideas/2884), an open XML format for toolboxes (TBX files) would greatly ease difficulties users experience. This would not only allow (experienced and cautious) users to fix their own toolboxes, but also would allow ESRI technicians to investigate corrupt toolboxes more easily. It would also make it possible for the user developer community to build repair tools.

[deleted-user-4RbHy6ryQ4a8]

You might also consider JSON instead of XML. Komodo Edit uses JSON for their toolboxes. Having a binary in our version control software is also irksome, we can not easily merge changes made by different users.

[OliverArchner]

This would be really helpful in the field of sharing models with other tools as well.

[PärSmårs]

I don't think we're going to see that anytime soon. No vote at all for this since I know it won't happen. Openness is not on the agenda.

[KoryKramer]

We're marking this implemented with the release of the .atbx format in ArcGIS Pro 2.9. 

See What's new in ArcGIS Pro 2.9—ArcGIS Pro | Documentation