Arc8/9 Migration: How Does This Impact Me?

As with any change in software version or migration of data to a new environment, there will be some changes, but we believe all changes will be for the better. Indeed, some of the changes to be made will make interacting with REGIS easier and more efficient.

New Software Version - As with any software upgrade, certain buttons, menus, tools and functions are moved, redefined or added. This is the case with both the ArcView and ArcIMS environments in this migration. While the theory behind the applications remain and many of the tools and functions will be familiar, a certain amount of "learning time" will likely be necessary for some users. If you require training, please visit the Arc8/9 Migration: Training page for more information.
Speed Improvements - The new version of ArcGIS actually communicates with the database REGIS uses (Oracle) to store all of its data, meaning users should experience less wait for queries or when opening larger tables and datasets.
Faster Digital Orthophotography - REGIS is also changing the way the digital orthophotography (aerial imagery) is stored, meaning speed improvements in the viewing of the orthophotography as well. The orthos in REGIS have always been slower than most layers, due in large part to the detailed resolution of the photos themselves. In the new environment, however, the orthos should appear faster on users' screens than ever before.
Some Functions Migrated to ArcIMS - Certain functionality which does not require the user to be an advanced ArcView user have been moved into the ArcIMS environment. This will make performing those tasks faster and easier, plus users of these functions will require much less training -- if any at all! -- due to not having to master the ArcView application first.
ArcView 3.3 Project Files - Since the ArcView 8/9 environment has been completely overhauled, a new type of "project" file exists now instead of the familiar ".apr" file. In the Arc9 environment, users may now save "Map Document" (or ".mxd") files, which are generally analogous to project files. While there is a method for converting ArcView 3.3 .apr files into ArcView 9 .mxd files, in many instances it may be more desirable to take advantage of the new tools and data in the Arc9 environment and create a brand new Map Document file. To help in determining if your projects should be converted directly from .apr files into .mxd files or if it may be easier to simply create brand-new .mxd (map document) files, please see the REGIS Arc9 Project Migration document.
Data Values in "English" Rather Than Codes - One of the many improvements to come out of the Arc8 Migration Effort is the conversion of the often-cryptic codes in many of the REGIS data tables into "plain English." For example, instead of having to know "KNT" stands for "Kent City" and not "Kentwood," the community name will be spelled out to reduce confusion. On water mains, "DI" will become "Ductile Iron" and over in Street Centerlines, an Act 51 Designation of "1" will instead read "State Trunkline."