Saving Layer Files in a File Geodatabase

[AndrewAslesen]

Hello, I am trying to do what ESRI wants me to and switch over from using shapefiles to using geodatabases in ArcEditor 10.0. I can't figure out how to move layer files or make new layer files in a geodatabase. The closest I can get is to go to "save as layer file" and save it in the "default geodatabase" file that was set up automatically, but once the layer file is in the default geodatabase, I can't move it into any other geodatabase.

Any Suggestions? Maybe I'll just stick to shapefiles, I still don't see the value of switching.

[AndrewAslesen]

I looked that up, and I think that will work for me. Thanks for the suggestion

[AndrewRevill]

Hi,

I am trying to save a layer file (i.e. layer symbology, colour, etc.) within a File Geodatabase so that I can send to others in an efficient manor so users do not have to keep on setting symbology. Is this possible? when ever I put the layer file within the Geodatabase it seems to 'forget' the appropriate symbology I set.

Thanks,

Andrew

[WilliamCraft]

This is so dumb that an ESRI person doesn't understand the original question!  It's very simple to understand and of course you don't!  I'm running into this same issue since there is no way to import KML linework directly into a Feature Class (FC) using Toolbox, and you can only create a layer file from it.  Since this is the case, how am I suppose to get KML lines into a feature class?  Oh and by the way, I'd like this to be a batch process since I have many KML files that I'll need to merge together into one FC.  ESRI needs to start listening to it's customers instead of jumping onto the next "cool" thing!! Fix the application you have now so that it works the way it's suppose to, then move on to something else!

You should reconsider saying such abusive things in a public forum, especially when you simply are not correct.  You state that the individual from Esri did not understand the original question.  Let�??s dissect his response, shall we:

Okay so I'm a bit confused. Are you attempting to convert your shapefiles into a geodatabase format? If so, you have several options. You can use the tools in ArcToolBox to convert between formats. Go to Conversion Tools -> To Geodatabase -> Feature Class to Feature Class. You could also use ArcCatalog as well - right click on the shapefile(s) in question and select Export -> To Geodatabase (single). �?? Clarifies the vague problem that the original poster is having and offers multiple suggestions

Layer Files (*.lyr) store the properties of a layer (such as symbology, labels, scale thresholds, etc.) in ArcMap and cannot be stored inside of a geodatabase. �?? Describes what layer files are and implies they serve a different purpose than feature classes and shapefiles

Hope this helps and feel free to contact me at rleclair@esri.com if you have additional questions.  �?? Offers genuine follow-up assistance in case the original poster has additional questions

When I re-read Esri�??s response in the context of the original issue posed in this thread, I think many would argue that the response is appropriate and well-written based on the information provided at the time. 

You then go on to complain that you aren�??t able to �??import KML lifework into a feature class�?� and that Esri should fix their software before rolling out new products, yet you seem not to be aware that this type of functionality already exists.  Beginning years ago at the 10.0 release, the KML to Layer (Conversion) GP tool converts a KML or KMZ file into feature classes and a layer file.  Here is the link since you obviously missed it: http://help.arcgis.com/en/arcgisdesktop/10.0/help../index.html#//00120000004w000000.
  You should do your research before making such accusations. 

While we all have experienced challenges with Esri software at one point in time or another, I don�??t think it warrants using abusive words like �??dumb�?� when talking about ANYONE in the forums.  Most of us are here to help those who seek technical assistance in a supportive and constructive manner.  In the future, you should avoid making statements like you did here.  You�??ll only embarrass yourself in the end.

[WilliamCraft]

As a follow up, if you're referring to the PLTS comment from the second esri staff member in this thread then I think my same comments apply.  While a bit more advanced than may be required, the suggestion isn't out of the realm of possibilities if the original poster wants to store layer files inside the geodatabase.  I still stand by my comments about your conduct.

[TomMoran]

As a follow up, if you're referring to the PLTS comment from the second esri staff member in this thread then I think my same comments apply.  While a bit more advanced than may be required, the suggestion isn't out of the realm of possibilities if the original poster wants to store layer files inside the geodatabase.  I still stand by my comments about your conduct.

While I agree with your points, I think the gripe is with the fact that there is not a tool available for a user to batch convert a group of KMZ's into either a .shp or feature class.

Correct me if I'm wrong but this is what I took away from this.

[AnnaK]

Hi,

what about right-click on 'KML To Layer' and then Batch...

cheers,

AK