Data Transformation

Workbench Application for Data Transformation

The Workbench application is included with the ArcGIS Data Interoperability extension. It provides a visual diagramming environment with more than 150 transformers [PDF-100 KB, 2 pages] that enable you to transform both geographic and attribute information. You can use the Workbench application in two ways.

1. Create custom formats to transform data on-the-fly.
2. Create custom data tools for transforming data as you create new data sources.

Creating Custom Formats

You can create new custom formats from any of the supported base formats by applying transformers to manipulate the attribute and geometric information stored within the file. You can use a single data source as the input or combine a multitude of formats. This data transformation takes place on-the-fly, allowing you to integrate data without converting it.

Creating Custom Tools

You can create custom tools using the same Workbench application and rich set of transformers. However, unlike custom format, you perform the schema manipulation as you convert the data to a new output data source. These tools allow you to integrate complex data model restructuring within the geoprocessing environment.

Use these tools to perform custom semantic translations to manipulate your data as it moves from source to destination formats. This is similar to defining a custom format; however, you can specify an output data set. Use these tools when you want to refine the translation of your data. These tools use Safe Software's feature manipulation language of their Feature Manipulation Engine (FME). They allow for schema redefinitions and give the user full control of the translation/transformation process.

Custom Data Import Tool

Use Workbench to transform data as it is translated to a personal geodatabase.

Custom Data Export Tool

Use Workbench to transform data as it moves from a source format to a destination format.

Data Transformation Tool

Use Workbench to transform data schema and geometry of feature classes within the geoprocessing environment.