ArcObjects are the building blocks of ArcGIS, geographic information system (GIS) software from ESRI®. With ArcObjects, you can create your own menus, tools, workflows, applications, and custom feature classes for use with ArcGIS. Getting to Know ArcObjects is designed to teach programmers of all skill levels, including absolute beginners, how to work with ArcObjects using Microsoft® Visual Basic for Applications (VBA).

Getting to Know ArcObjects teaches the basics of VBA programming, then progresses quickly to ArcObjects. Readers learn what ArcObjects are, use object model diagrams to find out what individual objects do, and program objects to execute specific GIS tasks, including:

• Adding layers to a map
• Defining layer symbology
• Querying data
• Working with selected features
• Creating dynamic layouts
• Editing feature attributes

Like other books in the Getting to Know series, Getting to Know ArcObjects uses a proven learning method that combines focused conceptual material with step-based exercises. Diagrams and color graphics enhance the concepts and provide direction and reinforcement in the exercises. A companion Web site (www.esri.com/gtkarcobjects) features additional learning resources and workbook updates.

Getting to Know ArcObjects supports the self-learner and makes a practical lab manual for instructors in the classroom. Those who are new to programming, or just new to ArcObjects, will find this book to be the perfect starting place for getting the most out of ArcGIS and the objects on which it is built.

CD-ROM includes:
The complete set of object model diagrams, as well as all code written in the exercises (which readers can adapt for their own projects), is included along with the exercise data.

Required software:
ArcView® 8.3, ArcEditor™ 8.3, or ArcInfo™ 8.3 software is required to complete the exercises in this workbook.

About the Author:
Robert Burke is a senior instructor and technical writer at ESRI and teaches GIS and programming courses at the University of Redlands.