With the release of ArcGIS Pro 3.x, Esri introduced breaking changes to ArcGIS Add-Ins with the migration from .NET 4 to .NET 6. As a result, users need to upgrade Add-Ins for ArcGIS Pro 3. 

Should you need help with the ArcGIS Pro 3 upgrade or the Add-in upgrade, DDS is here! 

What are ArcGIS Desktop Add-Ins? 

ArcGIS Desktop Add-Ins are extensions to ArcGIS Desktop (ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Desktop 10.x) developed by Esri. They are used to add custom functionality and capabilities to ArcGIS Desktop. Add-Ins can be created using .NET languages, such as C# and Python, and the ArcGIS Pro SDK, which provides a set of APIs and tools for building extensions for the software. Add-Ins can be used to automate tasks, add new tools, or extend the user interface, among other things. They can be installed and used by end users to enhance the functionality of their ArcGIS Desktop software, and are designed to integrate seamlessly with the software’s existing features and tools. 

Why do I have to upgrade my ArcGIS Desktop Add-Ins? 

Upgrading ArcGIS Desktop Add-Ins to ArcGIS Pro 3 is necessary because the software has been updated and improved, and older Add-Ins may not be compatible with the latest version. Upgrading ArcGIS Desktop Add-Ins ensures they continue to function correctly and take advantage of new features and performance improvements in latest releases. Additionally, not upgrading your Add-Ins may result in compatibility issues and prevent you from using the software to its full potential. 

Instances when you need to upgrade your Add-Ins? 

• ArcGIS Desktop 10.x Add-Ins – ArcGIS Desktop 10.x Add-Ins must be migrated to the ArcGIS Pro SDK to work in ArcGIS Pro. Additionally, Esri has removed Python Add-Ins. 
• ArcGIS Pro 2.x or earlier Add-Ins – ArcGIS Pro 2.x and earlier utilized .NET 4 libraries. With the release of ArcGIS Pro 3.x, all Add-Ins must be upgraded to the .NET 6 version of the ArcGIS Pro SDK. 

What is involved in upgrading my ArcGIS Desktop Add-Ins? 

Upgrading ArcGIS Add-ins from .NET 4 to .NET 6 using the ArcGIS Pro SDK typically involves the following steps: 

1. Reviewing the code: Review the existing code of the add-ins to identify any dependencies or components that may not be compatible with .NET 6. 
2. Updating .NET Framework: Upgrade the .NET Framework from .NET 4 to .NET 6, which is the latest version of the framework. 
3. Updating API references: Update the API references to the latest version of the ArcGIS Pro SDK, which includes support for .NET 6. 
4. Updating UI elements: Update the user interface (UI) elements, such as buttons, forms, and dialog boxes, to ensure they are compatible with the new .NET 6 framework. 
5. Testing: Thoroughly test the add-ins after making the updates to ensure they are functioning correctly and without any issues. 
6. Deployment: Deploy the upgraded add-ins to the target environment and make sure they are working correctly in ArcGIS Pro 3.x. 

The exact steps involved in upgrading an add-in from .NET 4 to .NET 6 will depend on the specific add-in and its code. It is recommended to consult the ArcGIS Pro SDK documentation for the latest information on how to upgrade add-ins to .NET 6. 

How can DDS help?  

DDS can help in upgrading ArcGIS Desktop Add-Ins by providing expertise in software development and ArcGIS Pro. They can assist in the following ways: 

• Code Review: DDS can review the existing code of the add-ins and identify any areas that may need to be updated or improved to work with the latest version of ArcGIS Pro and .NET 6.
• Upgrade Assistance: DDS can assist with the process of upgrading the add-ins from .NET 4 to .NET 6 and making sure they are compatible with the latest version of the ArcGIS Pro software. 
• Testing and Quality Assurance: DDS can provide testing and quality assurance services to ensure that the upgraded add-ins are functioning correctly and without any issues. 
• Deployment Support: DDS can assist with the deployment of the upgraded add-ins to the target environment and ensure they are working correctly in ArcGIS Pro 3.x. 
• Maintenance and Support: DDS can provide ongoing maintenance and support for the upgraded add-ins to ensure they continue to function correctly and meet the needs of the end users. 

By utilizing the expertise of DDS, organizations can ensure that their ArcGIS Pro Add-Ins are upgraded correctly and efficiently, and that they continue to function correctly and provide the desired functionality for end users. 

Contact DDS to get started!