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Lab Assignment
1. Getting set up
First, we copied the lab data folder from the class drive into either the C:\temp folder or our external SSD so everything would run smoothly. Then we opened the ArcGIS Pro project and added the provided datasets to the map. This step was mostly about making sure the data loaded correctly and getting familiar with what we were working with before making any changes .
2. Understanding topology (the big idea)
Before doing anything, we talked about what topology actually is. Topology is basically a set of rules that checks your GIS data for mistakes, like lines not connecting, shapes overlapping, or gaps where there shouldn’t be any. The goal is to make sure the data makes sense spatially and follows real-world logic.
3. Creating topology rules
Next, we created a topology inside the geodatabase and added rules based on the feature types we were working with. These rules define what is allowed and what counts as an error. After setting this up, we opened the rules chart and took a screenshot to show that the topology rules were created correctly, which is one of the required deliverables.
Figure 1: Topology Rules in ArcGIS Pro
4. Viewing the data before fixing errors
Before running the topology check, we created a map showing what the data looked like in its original state. We zoomed in on areas where problems were visible and added detailed inset maps to clearly show the errors. This step was important because it shows how messy the data can be before topology is applied.
5. Running the topology check
After that, we validated the topology. ArcGIS Pro flagged errors directly on the map, showing where rules were being broken. These errors weren’t mistakes we made they were problems already in the data that needed to be fixed.
6. Fixing topology errors
We then used editing tools to clean up the errors found during validation. This included fixing overlaps, snapping features together, and adjusting shapes so they followed the topology rules. After making edits, we re-validated the topology to make sure the errors were corrected.
7. Creating the final map
Once the data was cleaned up, we created the final map layout shown in the lab instructions. The map was designed to look clean and professional, with clear symbology and layout elements. We also added our name as a watermark in the lower corner, as required for submission.
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