Can I create/design my fields in Excel and import them to ArcGIS Pro while creating feature classes?

[AlexKweya]

First off, I’m aware that one can import tables or fields from other feature classes when creating fields for a new feature class. However, so far unless I have an exact schema from another feature class, I have to additionally go through the list I import from an Excel table to set certain parameters like Field Aliases and Data Types.

My intention is to have some sort of template in Excel whereby I will design all my fields and specify the Field Name, Alias, Data Type, “Nullable Status”, Number Format, Domains and other parameters; after which, when creating fields for feature classes, on importing the Excel table, I can have them automatically populate as per the “attributes” set in Excel without having to tweak say the Alias or “Nullable Status”.

Is that possible? It would really be a better and faster way to create fields without moving around in the Create Feature Class pane to populate/adjust fields and values

I’ll appreciate any insights.

Alex Kweya.

[alex_friant]

There is an extension offered by Esri, the "Topographic Production Tools" toolbox, which allows you to do such things: https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/tool-reference/topographic-production/generate-geodatabase-...

[TravisColeHC]

This is an old topic, but thought it might help someone. At least in Pro 3.5, you can bring the Excel file into Pro. Then export it to a table and use that table for the template of fields. It is pretty straightforward and easy.

[WayneRennick]

but can you specify all the Data Type and Length of the new fields?

[alex_friant]

There is a built-in set of Geoprocessing Tools that do this in ArcGIS Pro:

• Data Management Tools
  • Workspace
    • Generate Schema Report
    • Convert Schema Report
    • Import XML Workspace Document

Your workflow would be something like this: 

1. Design your Geodatabase "template" feature class (fields, settings, domains, sub-types, etc.)
2. Run the Generate Schema Report -- choose export option to XLSX
   1. You can make little tweaks in that spreadsheet in Excel if you need to
3. Run the Convert Schema Report -- choose export option to XML
4. Run the Import XML Workspace Document -- you'll need a Geodatabase as your target to deploy the schema to

✅ Done. 

[WayneRennick]

This is so useful.
https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/help/data/geodatabases/overview/schema-report.htm

Thanks!