Using Catalog to view and update XY Coordinate System Information: ArcGIS Pro

[ToddFagin]

In ArcMap, one can simply right click on a feature class using Catalog and select properties to view the layers XY Coordinate System information and change it if need be.

This simple, exceptionally important functionality appears to be missing from ArcGIS Pro:

If I add the feature class to a map and view the properties, I can see this information (but, of course, cannot edit it):

I cannot even begin to tell you how often I have to troubleshoot layer projection issues for individuals. Being able to quickly access and edit this information is a must.

[DanPatterson_Retired]

Perhaps start a request here https://community.esri.com/community/arcgis-ideas?sr=search&searchId=0af4c635-d28e-4565-a9d7-0a7f359...‌ ... or look to see if there is a similar one that you can further champion... they do get results

[AdrianWelsh]

That, or maybe add it to this Idea: https://community.esri.com/ideas/12671 

It is hopping with comments back and forth (too long to read them all), but with so much activity, I would imagine that it must be considered in some form or fashion.

[ToddFagin]

Funny, the individual who initially posted this suggestion is a friend of mine. I voted up, of course. Thanks for sharing the link.

[JayantaPoddar]

The objective can also be met using Define Projection—Data Management toolbox | ArcGIS Desktop. 

[ToddFagin]

Yes, but that needlessly adds additional steps that were previously readily available.

[DanPatterson_Retired]

Todd, I personally don't mind everything being consolidated into ArcToolbox functions.  For me (and for teaching purposes) it saves trying to remember a bunch of obscured functionality.  It requires a different way of thinking about how to organize your workflow, albeit inconvenient in the short-term.  And, esri is quite upfront about ArcGIS not being a clone of ArcMap with a new name.

[ToddFagin]

Dan--I appreciate your comment.

To be clear, though, I do not expect nor do I want an ArcMap clone. I do, however, want a product that can seamlessly meet my GIS needs that are currently being met elsewhere. As a almost everyday GIS user (I am using GIS on a Sunday evening) and GIS educator (I am taking the leap in my classes to ArcGIS Pro, despite my trepidation), there is certain core functionality that is absolutely imperative to my workflow. Being able to quickly and easily manage data is one of those things.

Here's an example. If one of our users or one of my students is having problems with data "lining up" (it happens frequently), I need to be able to quickly and easily look at the layer's assigned coordinate system and determine whether it matches the actual coordinate system utilized by the data. All, l have to do is open up ArcCatalog or a blank ArcMap document and quickly review and, if necessary, alter the data.

In ArcGIS Pro, if I have to go to ArcToolbox to define the projection, OK--so one handy shortcut has been eliminated, no big deal in the grand scheme of things. The larger issue is that with ArcGIS Pro, mere data management has become needlessly cumbersome. Sometimes, you simply don't need a project to ensure the integrity of someone's data.

[DanPatterson_Retired]

Ahhh yes... the dreaded not in the same coordinate system, or it is defined wrong.  I get that all the time too in classes.  

With the venture in Pro, I have opted to set the Map Document Properties.  I define an area of interest (AOI) as either a pre-existing boundary, or one that is made... then the map extent is set to it... if something doesn't show up, it shouldn't be there or it has been defined wrong.  As for coordinate systems, I have never been a fan of projection-on-the fly... so only one coordinate system allowed.  If two show up... fix it.

Good luck with term... log and blog about what works and what doesn't...