Geoprocessing is a framework and set of tools for processing geographic and related data. The comprehensive suite of geoprocessing tools can be used to perform spatial analysis or manage GIS data in an automated way. Geoprocessing is for everyone who uses ArcGIS Pro. Whether you are a new or advanced user, geoprocessing will likely be an essential part of your day-to-day work.
A typical geoprocessing tool performs an operation on a dataset such as a feature class, raster, or table, and creates a resulting output dataset. For example, the Buffer tool takes features as input, creates buffer areas around the features to a specified distance, and writes those buffer areas to a new output dataset.
In addition to the suite of tools, geoprocessing is also a framework that supports control of the processing environment and allows you to build custom tools that can further automate your work. You can use the geoprocessing tools included in ArcGIS Pro as building blocks to create an infinite number of custom tools that automate repetitive tasks or solve complex problems.
In ArcGIS Pro, you can do the following:
- Find the geoprocessing tool that is right for the job by searching or browsing a list of tools.
- Run the geoprocessing tool after specifying parameter settings and other options.
- View the geoprocessing history of your project.
- Create and use custom geoprocessing tools that help automate your work.
- Save sets of geoprocessing tools that are important to your project.
- Share geoprocessing tools as packages, services, or samples for others to use.
Get started with a quick tour of geoprocessing in ArcGIS Pro, or the quick-start tutorial Use geoprocessing tools.