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.