The script is a Python tool designed to catalog and document geographic information system (GIS) data within a specified workspace, leveraging the capabilities of the ArcPy library. Here’s a summary of its key functionalities:

1. Data Exploration: The script navigates through a designated GIS workspace, which can be a folder or a geodatabase, using the arcpy.da.Walk function.
2. File Information Retrieval: For each encountered file, the script gathers information such as file size, creation time, modification time, and last access time. This is achieved through the os and datetime modules.
3. Feature Counting: If the file represents a feature class within a geodatabase, the script attempts to count the number of features using ArcPy’s GetCount_management function. It handles cases where feature counting is not applicable or encounters an error.
4. Data Categorization: Based on the type of GIS data (e.g., shapefile, feature class, raster dataset), the script categorizes the data and extracts additional metadata using the arcpy.Describe function.
5. CSV Output: All gathered information is systematically organized and written to a CSV file, creating a comprehensive catalog that can be easily reviewed and shared.
6. Error Handling: The script incorporates error handling to gracefully manage potential issues, such as missing files or inaccessible geodatabase feature classes.
7. Skip List: The script allows for the exclusion of specific files or directories from the cataloging process using a skip list, providing flexibility in data selection.
8. Logging: Throughout the process, the script logs its activities, making it easier for users to monitor the progress and identify any potential problems.

This tool is valuable for GIS professionals and data managers who need a systematic and automated approach to cataloging and documenting their spatial datasets. It streamlines the process of generating a detailed inventory, enhancing data organization, and facilitating subsequent data analysis and decision-making within a GIS environment.

The script can be downloaded/forked on Github.

GIS Data Cataloger