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In ArcGIS 10.1, Python Add-Ins make various buttons, toolbars, extensions, etc, available to those already familiar with Python and OO in general. I am in the process of developing a Python Add-In and normally I would use eclipse with PyDev to develop scripts or small python applications. However, with the prescribed/predefined Python Add-In workflow (Python Add-In Wizard), I am finding it difficult integrating my eclipse workflow.

The Python Add-In relies on a script that packages the add-in according to a predefined config.xml and folder/file structure, seen below:

Python Add-In\
    Images\
        yourimages.png
    Install\
        PythonAddIn_addin.py
    config.xml
    makeaddin.py

How would you integrate eclipse PyDev without interfering with the python add-in wizard and prescribed development folder structure?

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1 Answer

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I also use Eclipse with PyDev as my main Python editor for arcpy and non-arcpy scripts. If I decide to develop Python Add-ins in 10.1, I will probably just use NTFS symbolic links so that the file in the .py file in the Add-in folder is just a symbolic link to the actual .py file in my Eclipse folder. This is like a shortcut, but is seamless because it's created at the filesystem level. Programs (e.g. ArcMap) usually can't tell the difference between the actual file and a symbolic link to the actual file.

This article walks through the creation and use of symbolic links.

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Thank you, I'll have a look at that today. – Michael Markieta Jun 20 '12 at 11:11
Aside from having my data stored on a mapped network drive, this worked. To overcome this, using a DVCS (I like tortoise HG) work on a local copy that I clone from the network and commit changes too throughout the day. Pull request to the network repository when ready. – Michael Markieta Jun 22 '12 at 0:39
I'd also add in for anyone else the possibility of a filesystem junction on windows if you need to symlink a whole folder. technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/bb896768.aspx – nicksan Jun 26 '12 at 18:36

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