Project Template vs. Project Package

[Ahmad-Osama-Musleh]

Hi all,

This is a conceptual question: Project Templates in ArcGIS Pro should include standard elements but not the data. However, when I create one, it contains the data. I create it using the Share ribbon, Save As group. I tried to uncheck Include Toolboxes and Include History Items, but it still includes the data. Any idea why that is happening? I am using ArcGIS Pro 3.4.3.

Thanks!

[DanPatterson · Accepted solution]

databases would be considered data

A project template is a customized starting state for a project. It can include maps, scenes, layouts, databases, folder connections, and other items. Any configuration of a project that you want to reuse can be saved as a project template.

Create a project template—ArcGIS Pro | Documentation

Create a project template—ArcGIS Pro | Documentation the second part from the help files.

When do you create your project template will determine what is included in it.

[Ahmad-Osama-Musleh]

Thanks, Dan.

I thought the difference between a Project Package and a Project Template is the inclusion of data. It seems to me now that the difference is defining the name of the project, as the Template doesn't lead to a specific project name. So I am still wondering what the core difference between the two is.

P.S.: I don't mean the difference in use, but rather the difference between the two themselves.

Let me rephrase the question: Who do we have project templates? Why don't we just open the package multiple times to create new similar projects?

Thanks again.

[DanPatterson]

I use project packages when I need to share with someone else.  If you wanted open a package multiple times you would replicate any packaged data as well.  I keep my projects in one main folder, that folder contains any data that will be common to all projects.  I can create a template that does or doesn't contain that data.  I also don't use cloud stored or other data not on my machine.  That may be different in your case.

Experiment with your situation to see whether using a template versus opening up a package multiple times is what you want.  Just use your file browser to examine the differences in the structure of the project paths and their contents.

[Miralem_Zeljo]

It is good to see that I am not the only one confused as to what the difference is and why half the time package tool does not even work when you try to package PPKX. We found that creating APTX works best and then we rename it to PPKX so it can be opened by Arc Pro with a double click. APTX you have to use as new project from template option. I am hoping that this process can be simplified and we can get to creating PPKX files without all the extra hoops.