There are multiple workflows to create 3D layers in ArcGIS, and the approach you choose depends on your access to existing 3D data, layer performance, accessibility needs of your organization, and the maintenance requirements of the layers. Consider these factors carefully when selecting the best approach to creating 3D layers that meet your specific requirements. By doing so, you can ensure that your 3D layers are both effective and efficient in delivering insight and value to your organization.
3D data access
If you have access to 3D data in your organization, review import 3D workflows to learn how to create 3D layers from various 3D data sources. You can also create 3D layers using attribute information, using rules to generate 3D geometries, and by extracting 3D information from point clouds and imagery.
Performance and accessibility
Quality performance is essential when working in 3D. A scene with a low refresh rate can quickly become unworkable and may fail to engage your audience. It is recommended that you create scene layers as a final step in the workflow to ensure quality performance. A scene layer can display the following data types: 3D object, point, integrated mesh, point cloud, building, or voxel. You can share scene layers within your organization and with the public.
Layer maintenance
Before you create 3D layers, consider how often you will need to update the layers. If you are sharing 3D data to ArcGIS Online or ArcGIS Enterprise, you can create a scene layer with an associated feature layer when you need to make frequent updates. This ensures you can make edits or replace features while still having a fast-performing layer. However, if the layer does not need to be updated often, you can instead create a scene layer locally as a scene layer package and share it as an item within your organization.
Refer to the 3D layer workflows in the table of contents for more information.