Arc Macro Language (AML)
A scripting language used for automating GIS tasks, particularly in ESRI software
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How do you define Arc Macro Language (AML)?
Arc Macro Language (AML) is a high-level scripting language developed by Esri for use with its ArcInfo geographic information system (GIS) software. It is designed to automate tasks, customize workflows, and build user interfaces within the ArcInfo environment.
AML allows users to write scripts that perform complex sequences of GIS operations, such as map creation, data processing, and spatial analysis, without needing to execute each step manually. It includes commands for handling variables, loops, menus, and system functions, making it a powerful tool for GIS professionals working with large datasets or repetitive tasks.
Although AML was widely used in earlier versions of ArcInfo (especially the workstation version), it has largely been replaced by modern scripting languages like Python in current Esri software platforms.
Related Keywords
ArcInfo Esri's ArcInfo GIS software uses AML (Arc Macro Language), a scripting language, to automate geospatial workflows, personalize map creation, and carry out intricate spatial analytics. By enabling users to create scripts for data processing, map automation, and repetitive chores, AML improves GIS operations' productivity without requiring human participation.
ArcInfo Workstation uses Esri AML (Arc Macro Language), a scripting language, to automate GIS processes, customize workflows, and carry out batch processing. To increase the efficiency and reproducibility of GIS operations, a simple AML course walks users through the process of building scripts to handle spatial data, create maps, and automate tedious procedures.
Through the creation of custom expressions, workflow automation, and computations within the GIS environment, GIS automation with AML (ArcGIS Arcade Scripting Language) simplifies geographical data processing and mapping. This facilitates quicker, more accurate decision-making across projects, decreases manual labour, and enhances consistency.
ESRI's ArcInfo uses the Arc Macro Language (AML) programming language to automate GIS functions. Custom map legend creation, map printing automation, batch geoprocessing, and report generation are a few examples. For example, an AML script can automatically create a number of thematic maps or calculate regions by looping through several shapefiles. These scripts increase productivity by streamlining tedious GIS tasks.