Project possible? - select feature and show data from connected ones in a form

PSArcOnlinePSArcOnline · ‎08-21-2014

Hello,

so let's see if the new forum works.

I want to begin a python project. I have a little experience in things like SQL, VBA, PHP and I did a few little python scripts. Before I start this project I would like to know whether it is possible in principle. I know that this is no easy thing but I am willing to learn.

Ok, here is what I want to do.

In my ArcGIS project there is a line shape and polygon shape. In both layers are joint ID fields. So some polygon features are connected to one line feature by this ID.

I want to create an addon that, if a line is selected, show me the data from the line feature in an form view. In that same form the data of all connected polygon features (via the ID) should be shown underneath in a tabular view. If it is possible the values should be changeable.

So is this possible to achieve with ArcGIS and Python?

Thanks for your help and sorry for my English.

MatthewLewis · ‎08-26-2014

Id like to agree with James here that if you want a specific type of UI ArcObjects is your main man.

However, you could use Python Add In's to make a tool which returns a temp layer file to the map from a query. All you will then need to do is either use the Identify tool or open the attribute table. All of which could be bundled into a tool pallet using the "customize" menu

One other idea is to use python to return information to a python UI module such as PyQT.

Equally if you have access to a server (even open source) the JavaScript API will be of interest.

On another note - Access DB, it is wise to get off these soon. They are very old tech and are in the process of being phased out. Not only are they limited on size you miss out on a lot of functionality.

If your keen to make "forms" or use SQL commands you could look at using Personal SDE databases in a SQL. You can link to these in access anyway with the Added benefit of it being a SQL database.

PSArcOnlinePSArcOnline · ‎08-26-2014

Thanks all for your suggestions. I will give ArcObjects a try and deepen my knowledge in Python.

I also will make considerations about Access. Even that, in the moment, I don't see a "easy" way for us to switch.

@James Crandall: Your Application looks really great! That would be my goal if I would be able to develop such a project. But maybe I could handle something less sophisticated.

I will award some shiny Stars, so this functionality of the "forum" will be tested too.

Edit: Ok, it is only possible to mark one correct answer. Sorry. But thanks to Matthew Lewis too.