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3D analysis overview

Some problems can only be solved in 3D. ArcGIS has a range of 3D tools for analyzing GIS data in a three-dimensional context. It allows you to create and conduct 3D analysis using many types of 3D data, such as 3D points, 3D lines, 3D polygons, point clouds, multipatches, TINs, terrain datasets, and rasters. You can create, import, and convert 3D data between different formats, and analyze surfaces and 3D feature data together to better understand your environment in a 3D context.

3D Analysis workflows involve a series of steps for analyzing spatial data and creating 3D models that can be used to simulate and predict real-world scenarios. The workflow typically begins with collecting data from various sources, such as satellite images, lidar scans, or drone surveys. Once your data is collected, you may perform complex three-dimensional analysis with ArcGIS to maximize the potential of your geospatial data. This can involve a range of techniques, such as terrain analysis, feature extraction, and volumetric modeling. ArcGIS's AI powered 3D tools can analyze large volumes of point clouds and imagery, automate shape and pattern recognition, and extract insights at scale, resulting in faster and smarter data-driven decisions. The results of the analysis can be used to simulate and predict various scenarios, such as land use planning, disaster response, or urban design.

The 3D analysis workflows are organized around the following topics: surface analysis, visibility analysis, point cloud classification, volumetric analysis, and evaluating spatial relationship in 3D.

Refer to the appropriate section in the menu to the left to find 3D analysis workflows.