PROBLEM

Converting a joined event layer to a shapefile changes field names

Last Published: April 25, 2020

Description

Converting an event layer containing joined XY data to a shapefile changes the field names in the converted shapefile.

Cause

This issue occurs when using XY data to create a join for the event layer, and exporting the layer as a shapefile. Exporting the event layer as a file geodatabase feature class does not change the field names.

Solution or Workaround

The following are workarounds for both ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro.

ArcMap
Perform a join with the XY data table and the desired feature class. Subsequently, create a second join with the event layer.
  1. In ArcMap, export the table containing the XY data to a file geodatabase table. For more information on exporting tables, refer to ArcGIS Help: Exporting tables.
  2. Join the desired feature class to the file geodatabase table from Step 1.
  3. Export the output from Step 2 to a file geodatabase to permanently save the output.
  4. Create the event layer using the join created in Step 3.
  5. Export the event layer as a feature class to the file geodatabase.
ArcGIS Pro
Use available tools, such as Make XY Event Layer and Copy Features.
  1. In ArcGIS Pro, add a .csv file containing the XY data to the desired event layer.
    Image of add layer in ArcGIS Pro
  2. Join the desired feature class with the event layer from Step 1.
  3. Export the joined event layer as a feature class. For more information, refer to ArcGIS Help: Add x,y coordinate data as layer.
    Note:
    Ensure the field names are displayed correctly by viewing the attribute table.
    

Article ID:000013995

Software:
  • ArcGIS Pro 1 x
  • ArcMap

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