MNC GIS Modernization Partnership:

Transition from ArcGIS Desktop to ArcGIS Pro

Project Overview

In response to the evolving geospatial technology landscape, a leading information management organization in the Canadian Prairies initiated a modernization of its GIS environment. The organization aimed to future-proof its land management systems by transitioning away from ArcGIS Desktop, which reached end-of-support from Esri as of March 1, 2026.

In addition to preparing for this transition, the organization also sought to replace custom-built components with commercially available off-the-shelf (COTS) solutions, ensuring greater reliability, scalability, and reduced maintenance overhead.

MNC (Martin Newby Consulting Ltd.) was contracted to support this modernization initiative, providing technical leadership and implementation support for the migration to a newer Esri platform built on ArcGIS Pro.

Challenge

The client’s legacy GIS environment, centered on ArcGIS Desktop, faced growing limitations in performance, usability, and vendor support.

Computer workstation with multiple monitors displaying maps and data, surrounded by printed maps and documents

Key Limitations Included:

Imminent end-of-support for ArcGIS Desktop from Esri, requiring a complete platform migration

Dependence on custom-developed tools that were expensive to maintain and lacked vendor backing

The need for a stable, modern, and industry-supported GIS foundation to reduce long-term technical debt

The Solution

MNC partnered with Silvacom CS and the client to guide the transition to a modern GIS system using Esri’s ArcGIS Pro platform. This collaborative project focused on data migration, technology replacement, and aligning the GIS environment with industry standards.

Workflow diagram showing a multi-step GIS process from data submission through editing, parcel fabric management, and enterprise publication

Key Steps in the Solution:

Platform Transition and Data Migration

Migrated GIS operations and datasets from ArcGIS Desktop to ArcGIS Pro.
Customized the data model to ensure continuity and compatibility with modern workflows.

COTS Integration

Replaced legacy custom software elements with supported COTS components.
Streamlined GIS operations while reducing the need for ongoing custom development.

Modernization Planning and Support

Delivered modernization guidance to align system functionality with long-term goals.
Provided knowledge transfer and technical support to facilitate adoption of the new platform.

The Results

The client now operates a streamlined and future-ready GIS platform based on ArcGIS Pro.

Three people collaborating at a workstation with multiple monitors displaying maps and technical graphics

Key benefits included:

Enhanced performance through 64-bit processing.

A modern, intuitive interface with advanced 3D visualization and dynamic layouts.

Seamless integration with ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Enterprise for greater collaboration and accessibility.

Reduced reliance on custom development using scalable, supported COTS components.

A stable, well-supported system aligned with industry standards and positioned for future growth.

2014_MNC_HLogo_Grad_Color

Modern 64-bit

GIS PLATFORM DEPLOYED

Faster Workflows

WITH REDUCED MANUAL EFFORT

Scalable

ENTERPRISE-READY GIS FOUNDATION

About MNC

The Cadastral and Parcel Mapping Experts

MNC is a trusted leader in cadastral and parcel management with 25+ years of experience delivering GeoAI-ready datasets, modernizing parcel fabrics, and automating GIS workflows. As an Esri Gold and Cornerstone Partner with Parcel Management and State and Local Government Specialties, MNC provides scalable advanced GIS, ArcGIS Pro, FME automation, MicroStation, AutoCAD and cloud-ready geospatial systems that improve data quality and support government land administration modernization across Canada, the USA, and the Caribbean.

Get Started