The Append tool in ArcGIS Pro ModelBuilder does not preserve the Field Map setting

Description

Note:
BUG-000111603 was fixed in ArcGIS Pro version 2.5.

In ArcGIS Pro ModelBuilder, when using the Append tool with the 'Use the Field Map to reconcile schema differences' Schema Type, the field mapping is not preserved after saving and closing the model.

For example, in the image below, a new source NEWAHADI2 from the input dataset is selected and mapped to the output field AHA_ID. However, the model reverts to the default Field Map setting after saving and closing.

Cause

The behavior encountered is a software defect that is specific to ArcGIS Pro. For more information, refer to BUG-000111603.

Workaround

As a workaround, select one of the following options:

Use the Append tool from the Geoprocessing pane

1. In the Toolboxes pane, navigate to Data Management Tools > General > Append.
2. In the Append pane, set the parameters for Input Datasets and Target Dataset.
3. For Schema Type, select Use the Field Map to reconcile schema differences from the drop-down list.
4. For Output Fields, select the output field, and click Add New Source to add a source for the field.
5. Click Run.

The image below shows the values appended to the Output Field successfully.

Use the Merge tool

While the Append tool combines input datasets to an existing target dataset, the Merge tool combines input datasets to a new output dataset.

1. In the ModelBuilder tab, click the Tools icon in the Insert group.
2. In the Find Tools search box, search and double-click the Merge tool.

3. In the model view, double-click the tool to open the Merge pane.
4. In the Parameters section, for Input Datasets, select the desired feature class from the drop-down list.
5. Set a name and location for Output Dataset.
6. Click OK.

Use the Append tool in ArcMap ModelBuilder

1. Open ModelBuilder in ArcMap.
2. Open the Search window. In the Search pane, search the Append tool and drag the tool to the model view.
3. Double-click the tool to open the Append pane.
4. Set the parameters for Input Datasets and Target Dataset.
5. For Schema Type, select NO_TEST from the drop-down list.
6. For Field Map, right-click the desired field and select Add Input Field.
7. In the Add Input dialog box, add the new source field and click OK.
8. Click Apply > OK.

The image below shows the Field Map setting is preserved after adding a new source in the Field Map parameter.