Is it possible to create a workgroup geodatabase in ArcGIS Pro?

Answer

In some instances, an organization uses a workgroup geodatabase to create multiple maps and layouts in a single project. The maps and layouts may be edited simultaneously by organization members in ArcGIS Pro. However, it is not possible to create a workgroup geodatabase in ArcGIS Pro because the SQL Server Express instance is not available.

As a workaround, create the workgroup geodatabase in ArcMap and connect it to ArcGIS Pro. Connect the workgroup geodatabase to ArcGIS Pro using the ArcSDE connection file from ArcMap, or by creating a new direct database connection to the SQL Server Express instance. Follow the instructions described below:

1. Create a workgroup geodatabase in ArcMap. For more detailed steps, refer to ArcMap Web Help: Create a desktop or workgroup geodatabase.
2. Connect the workgroup geodatabase created in ArcMap to ArcGIS Pro by selecting one of the options below:
   • Add the ArcSDE connection file from ArcMap to connect the workgroup geodatabase in ArcGIS Pro. For more detailed steps, refer to ArcGIS Pro Web Help: Add a database directly to the project.
   • Create a new direct database connection to the SQL Server Express instance to ArcGIS Pro. For more detailed steps refer to ArcGIS Pro Web Help: Connect from ArcGIS Pro.
     
     The image below shows the Database Connection dialog box.