Cannot find a writable project directory. Please set HOME to a writable directory.

Error Message

This error occurs when starting ArcView:

"Cannot find a writable project directory. Please set HOME to a writable directory."

After starting, ArcView can open projects, but cannot save them, nor can it create anything new.

Cause

The path that the Startup file in the etc folder needs for HOME is not writable, or contains spaces, slashes, or other special characters.

Solution or Workaround

• The entire path has write permissions.
  
  
• The path follows the acceptable naming conventions.
  
  

  Note:
  See the "ArcView Installer Read Me" file that comes with the ArcView installation. 

  
  
• The name of the hard drive conforms to the naming conventions. Rename the hard drive if necessary.