I could use some help with managing information in a spreadsheet that is then used to create a shapefile. We have an inventory of storm sewer infrastructure that needs annual inspections and coordinate and attribute updates. I'll do my best to describe what I am trying to do.
What I currently do: Throughout the year as this infrastructure is inspected, I update coordinates and mark them as "inspected" or "deleted". This data is in an Excel spreadsheet. Once updated, I add XY data to the ArcMap document, then convert it to a shapefile so that the map reflects the infrastructure that has been inspected and what still needs inspections.
What I would like to do: Find a way to have the shapefile linked to a spreadsheet/table/database so that I can change the information there and have the shapefile update automatically.
I have the feeling there is a better way to do what I'm doing. Updating and creating a new shapefile every week or so seems cumbersome and I don't want to have a folder full of multiple shapefiles. Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
Eric