Abstract

Python Scripts for Customiable Map Layouts and Text
Track: Cartography and Map Production
Authors: Greg Couch

Integrating custom arcpy.mapping Python scripts and Layout Elements fills gaps between manual placement, Dynamic Text, or intensive .NET programming for creating advanced map layouts. Standardizing marginalia and other variables reduces the production time and potential errors GIS analysts encounter when creating map layouts outside of Data Driven Pages and Dynamic Text. ArcGIS desktop 10.0 users have realized time savings with lightweight, shareable Python scripts leveraging the arcpy.mapping module and standardized element conventions to update layout elements and integrate multiple export formats into single processes. Variably calculated placement properties based on length and value ensures the spectrum of users, from basic to advanced, spend less time on creating and moving elements and more on analysis.