Let's expand the capabilities of your database with geodata! Imagine effortlessly adding a field to all geodatabase objects with just a few clicks. In this blog post, we dive into the world of Model Builder, revealing the secrets of automating this process. Learn how to systematically integrate a field, along with the correct name, type, and description, into every layer in your database. As we create an empty model and navigate the geoprocessing window, you'll discover the power of the Add Field tool and witness the magic of iteration with Iterate Feature Classes. With each step, we demystify the process, ensuring your geodatabase grows seamlessly. Join us as we connect tools, parameterize, and validate models, uncovering the ins and outs of Model Builder. Stay tuned for the next post where we'll explore field deletion, delve into table dynamics, and even touch on implementing this functionality in Python. Up your geodata game and revolutionize your GIS workflow!
Assume you've had to add the same field to all geodatabase objects.
Let's explore how we can automate this process with Model Builder. We'll learn how to systematically add a field with the corresponding name, type, and description to all layers in the database.
At this point, we have an empty model and a functional geographic database with a set of files.
Let's create an empty model.
Right-click on Add_fields.atbx and select "New Model."
From the geoprocessing window, let's find the "Add Field" tool to introduce a new field.
After selecting it, populate a class with the field name, type, and length.
Run the geoprocessing and review the results. In the attribute table of the layer, observe that our field has been successfully added. In this case, with numerous classes in the database, let's explore automating the process to avoid manual execution for each class. For this purpose, let's transition to the Model Builder. The first requirement is to traverse all classes in the database. As you can see, there are various options for this purpose.
We will utilise "Iterate Feature Classes".
After adding it to the model, the tool appears inactive (highlighted in gray). This is because we need to set the parameters by adding our working database.
Upon selecting "Ok," the tool is validated.
Validate, save, and run the model to see the results.
Check the messages from the class crawl in the database; they will resemble this format:
Model
=====================
Parameters
=====================
Messages
Start Time: 20 November 2023 17:37:29
Executing (Iterate Feature Classes): IterateFeatureClasses C:\GISProject\GISBlog\Tools_Projects\MD_add_fields\AddFields.gdb # # NOT_RECURSIVE
Start Time: 20 November 2023 17:37:29
Succeeded at 20 November 2023 17:37:30 (Elapsed Time: 0.81 seconds)
Executing (Iterate Feature Classes): IterateFeatureClasses C:\GISProject\GISBlog\Tools_Projects\MD_add_fields\AddFields.gdb # # NOT_RECURSIVE
Start Time: 20 November 2023 17:37:30
Succeeded at 20 November 2023 17:37:30 (Elapsed Time: 0.04 seconds)
Executing (Iterate Feature Classes): IterateFeatureClasses C:\GISProject\GISBlog\Tools_Projects\MD_add_fields\AddFields.gdb # # NOT_RECURSIVE
Start Time: 20 November 2023 17:37:30
At this point, we can traverse objects in the database. Now, let's add a field to them. In the Geoprocessing History, observe the tools implemented so far in the project.
As we've been using the "Add Field" tool, let's incorporate it into our model.
Connect it to the crawl and set the right parameters.
Delete the block with blue 
of the work class from the previous step and replace it with the green block 
Wire the crawl output to be the field add input.
Now, validate, save, and run the tool, reviewing the output. Steps must be repeated during execution, indicating that a class is read, and the field is added, then the next class, and so forth.
Review the result on the map. A new field has been added to the attribute table.
Note: You may need to reload the data from the database to display the new field.
It's also possible to add an input DB parameter so that this approach can be applied to a new DB.
Validate and save the model. Run it as a custom geoprocessing.
Select the model from the catalog window, and double-click to open it.
Notice there is no description of the model's purpose. Let's add that. Right-click and select Properties.
Add the name "AddMultipleFields" and the description "Add multiple fields to DB." Save the model to reflect the changes.
Let's start it again.
To maximize this model's utility, add a few more parameters, specifically field type parameters
Right-click on the "Add Field", tool, and add Field Name, Type, Length, and Alias.
Rearrange them automatically with the Auto Layout option.
The model now appears organized.
Now, create parameters from the field characteristics. Validate and save; review the new parameters.
If you want to add a new field, simply add its parameters.
In the next post, we will explore how to delete fields by name from the DB. Also, for working with tables, a different approach to creating fields will be needed.
Finally, we'll see how to implement this functionality in Python.
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