How to Geocode Using ArcGIS Pro: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Prepare Your Data

Start by preparing your data in a format that ArcGIS Pro can read. For this tutorial, we will use a table of addresses that includes street addresses, cities, states, and zip codes. If your data is in an Excel sheet, you can convert it to a standalone table in ArcGIS by using the Excel to Table tool.

Step 2: Geocode Your Table

To geocode your table, right-click on the table you want to geocode and select Geocode Table. This will open the geocoding table tool interface. You will have the option to follow a guided walkthrough or access the tool directly.

Step 3: Choose Your Geocoding Service

If you have an organizational license, you typically have access to Esri’s ArcGIS World Geocoding Service. This service allows you to send addresses and receive geographic coordinates in return. However, if you don’t have access to this service, you can find alternative geocoding services online. For example, you can search for a Colorado address locator.

Step 4: Add a Connection to the Geocoding Service

Once you have found a suitable geocoding service, copy its URL. In ArcGIS Pro, navigate to the Insert tab, go to Connections, and select New ArcGIS Server. Paste the URL of the geocoding service and click OK.

Step 5: Add the Locator to Your Project

After adding the server connection, you can find it in the catalog under Servers. Right-click on the Locators folder and select Add Locator. Choose the geocoding service you just added and click OK.

Step 6: Configure the Geocoding Process

Now, return to your table and select Geocode Table again. In the input locator, select the new locator you just added. You will be prompted to specify whether your data is in one field or multiple fields. For this example, we will select multiple fields and choose the appropriate columns.

Step 7: Run the Geocoding Tool

Click Run to execute the geocoding process. After completion, you will see the results displayed, including the number of matched, unmatched, and tied results.

Step 8: Rematch Unmatched Addresses

If there are unmatched addresses, you can start the rematch process. This will allow you to review and confirm which addresses need correction. You can cycle through unmatched and tied addresses and confirm matches as necessary.

Step 9: Save Your Edits

Once you have confirmed the matches, make sure to save your edits. You can continue to refine your geocoding results until you are satisfied with the matches.

Conclusion

Geocoding in ArcGIS Pro is a straightforward process, especially with access to various geocoding services. If you do not have access to the world geocoding service, remember that state-specific services are often available for free. Happy mapping!

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about geocoding in ArcGIS Pro:

What is geocoding in ArcGIS Pro?

  – Geocoding is the process of converting addresses, place names, or other location data into geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude) that can be mapped in ArcGIS Pro.

How do I perform geocoding in ArcGIS Pro?

To geocode in ArcGIS Pro, you need an address locator or a geocoding service. You can use the Geocode Table tool to input your address data and the locator to generate point features representing those locations.

What is an address locator, and how do I create one in ArcGIS Pro?

   – An address locator is a file that defines the rules for translating non-spatial data, like addresses, into geographic coordinates. You can create one in ArcGIS Pro using the “Create Address Locator” tool by specifying the reference data and the address locator style.

What types of address locators are available in ArcGIS Pro?

   – ArcGIS Pro supports several types of address locators, including Single House, Dual Range, General Single Field, and more. Each locator type is suited for different geocoding needs based on the input data’s format and level of detail.

Can I use online geocoding services in ArcGIS Pro?

   – Yes, ArcGIS Pro allows you to use ArcGIS Online or other online geocoding services to geocode addresses. However, an ArcGIS Online account and credits are required for this process.

How do I batch geocode multiple addresses in ArcGIS Pro?

   – To batch geocode, prepare a table of addresses in a format supported by ArcGIS Pro (such as Excel, CSV, or a geodatabase table). Then, use the “Geocode Table” tool to process the entire list of addresses at once.

What are the common issues encountered during geocoding, and how can I resolve them?

   – Common issues include unmatched addresses, incorrect geocoding results, and missing data. These can often be resolved by refining the input data, adjusting the geocoding sensitivity settings, or improving the reference data used by the address locator.

How can I improve geocoding accuracy in ArcGIS Pro?

   – Geocoding accuracy can be improved by using high-quality reference data, refining the input address data, selecting an appropriate address locator style, and fine-tuning the geocoding settings such as spelling sensitivity and minimum match score.

How do I handle unmatched addresses after geocoding?

   – You can review unmatched addresses in the geocoding results and attempt to rematch them manually by editing the address or adjusting the geocoding options. ArcGIS Pro provides interactive tools for this process.

Can I customize the output format of geocoding results in ArcGIS Pro?

    – Yes, you can customize the output format by selecting specific fields to include, choosing the output coordinate system, and defining how the geocoded points should be symbolized on the map.

How do I geocode international addresses in ArcGIS Pro?

    – To geocode international addresses, you need a locator that supports global geocoding, such as the ArcGIS World Geocoding Service, or you can create a custom locator using international reference data.

How can I save and share my geocoding results in ArcGIS Pro?

    – Geocoding results can be saved as feature classes in a geodatabase or as shapefiles. These can then be shared with others by exporting them to various formats or publishing them as services.