How to Access and Use UF ArcGIS Software
Learn how the University of Florida provides its community with access to the Esri ArcGIS ecosystem, including desktop and cloud-based geospatial tools.
Through a campus-wide site license, the University of Florida provides access to the Esri ArcGIS software suite for its students, faculty, and staff. This allows the university community to utilize geospatial software for applications in research, education, and data analysis. The software facilitates the exploration of data through a geographic lens, enabling users to create detailed maps and perform spatial analysis. By making this technology available, UF equips its community with the resources to develop skills in geographic information systems (GIS) for academic projects and professional competencies.
Accessing and Installing ArcGIS Pro
The GeoPlan Center administers a campus site license that makes ArcGIS Pro, the primary desktop application, available to all current UF students, faculty, and staff. The software can be installed on university-owned or personal computers for educational and instructional use at no charge.
To begin the installation, users must connect to the UF network, either on campus or by using the university’s Virtual Private Network (VPN). The software installer can be downloaded directly from the UF GeoPlan Center’s software page. It is recommended that students use the specific version of ArcGIS Pro designated by their professor for course compatibility; otherwise, downloading the latest version is advised.
After running the installer, the software must be authorized. Authorization for ArcGIS Pro is handled through an enterprise login, not a standard license key. Users will need to select the “Enterprise Login” option and enter “ufl” as the organization’s URL. This action prompts a login through the GatorLink authentication service to license the software. For those using Apple computers, which cannot run the Windows-native software, ArcGIS Pro is accessible through the UFApps virtual desktop environment.
While instructional use is covered by the university, any use of the software for grant-funded research requires a financial contribution to the Esri site license. Individuals involved in such research should coordinate with their department’s GIS point of contact or the GeoPlan Center to ensure proper licensing.
Navigating the UF ArcGIS Online Platform
The University of Florida also provides access to ArcGIS Online, a cloud-based platform to engage with geospatial data. This web-based system allows users to create, share, and interact with maps and applications without installing software. Its advantages include accessibility from any internet-connected device, streamlined collaboration features, and tools for building web applications like StoryMaps.
Accessing the UF ArcGIS Online portal is integrated with the university’s single sign-on system. Users log in by navigating to the UF ArcGIS Online homepage and using their GatorLink credentials. This process automatically creates an account within the UF organization, granting the user a “Publisher” role with 1000 credits for analysis and storage functions.
Once logged in, the interface is designed for map creation and data management. From the portal, you can start a new map, upload your own data, or access datasets shared by Esri and other users within the UF organization. This environment is useful for projects that require sharing interactive maps or collaborating in real-time with colleagues.
Any content created or data uploaded becomes part of the UF organization’s content and is subject to university data policies. The account and its data are managed by the university and may be removed after three years of inactivity. If a user leaves the university, there is no straightforward method to transfer data from the account, so planning for data preservation is necessary.
University Training and Support Resources
The UF Libraries are a central hub for support and training to help users develop proficiency with ArcGIS software. Students and faculty can schedule consultations with GIS specialists for one-on-one assistance with their research projects, offering personalized guidance on data analysis and mapping techniques.
The libraries also host workshops that introduce the fundamentals of Esri’s mapping products. These sessions cover topics such as creating interactive maps, managing content, and performing basic spatial analysis. For more specific needs, the library provides access to a wide array of self-paced training materials.
Through the university’s site license, members of the UF community have free access to the Esri Academy. This online platform contains courses ranging from beginner tutorials to advanced topics in spatial analytics and cartographic design. Users can access these resources by logging into the UF ArcGIS Online portal with their GatorLink ID and navigating to the “Training” tab.
This combination of direct support, workshops, and online courses from Esri ensures that UF students, faculty, and staff have multiple avenues for learning. This support system facilitates work for both new and experienced users.