Managing tool layers

With a few exceptions, tool layers are managed like any other group layer in ArcMap.

Create a tool layer

To create a tool layer, you drag and drop a tool from the Catalog, ArcToolbox, or Search window. You cannot add a tool using Add Data in ArcMap.

Executing the tool layer

Right-click the layer and click Open. Fill in the parameter values and click OK.

Note:

Tool layers always execute in the foreground.

Viewing execution messages

Once the tool has been executed for the tool layer, you can view messages by right-clicking the tool layer and clicking View messages.

Note:

A result is not written to the Results window when you execute a tool layer.

Saving a tool layer

Tool layers can be saved like any other layer. Right-click the layer and click Save to Layer File.

Renaming a tool layer

To rename a tool layer, click the layer and press the F2 key. Alternatively, right-click the tool layer, click Properties, then change its name on the General tab of the Group Layer Properties dialog box.