The ArcGIS Pro ModelBuilder is very similar to ModelBuilder in the other
ArcGIS Desktop applications. The model diagram view is similar, and you build
the models by adding data and geoprocessing tools by connecting them to shape
processes. In ArcGIS Pro, you can view, edit, and run models that you have
built in previous versions of ArcGIS Desktop.
Despite these similarities, there are some differences. Knowing these
differences will facilitate your migration to ModelBuilder in ArcGIS Pro.
Let’s see some important points.
Versions compatibility
Firstly, as with any application, let’s look at the compatibility
aspects among different versions. ArcGis Pro Model Builder should be considered
as the latest version of Model Builder. Respecting an intangible rule, we will
have an Ascending Compatibility. That is, you can run existing models
made with Model Builder 10.3, 10.2, 10.1 … in ArcGis Pro, but you will not be
able to run a model made or saved with ArcGis Pro in other Desktop
applications. .
To use an ArcGis Pro model in another
application, DO NOT USE THE SAVE BUTTON, or SAVE AS, IN THE RIBBON.
In the geoprocessor window, right-click the toolbox where you want to
save the model, and select Save As, and select the version where you
want to have the model:
Elements connection
The selection, movement, and the interconnection of elements is always
done with the same tool, unlike other Model Builder versions where there are
two separate tools.
- To select an item, move the
cursor over the item and click. - To move an item, select it, click
and move with the cursor.
To connect one element to another, the element
must not be selected, move the cursor over the element (the cursor takes the
form of a hand), click the item and move to the item to connect. Release the mouse on the latter; a window appears to
define the correspondence of the attached element with the various
possibilities of the tool.
What is not present in ArcGis Pro Model Builder
The Add to map (Add to display) no longer exists. In order for
the model output to be loaded in the map window you must define the output
layer as the model parameter. In this case, it is automatically added to
the map.
Intermediate and Managed Data Options no longer exist. According
to the mode of execution:
-If you run the model from the model window, all intermediate layers are
preserved,
-If you run the model from the geoprocessor window, all intermediate data is
automatically erased.
Lists and sets no longer exist. You must replace them with
iterators.
What you have to restring
If your models contain the tool “Calculate Field”, do not
forget that the VB syntax no longer exists in ArcGis Pro. It is necessary to
modify the expressions to convert them in Python. Then save the modified model.
