Skip to main content
`Ctrl`+`K`

# Getting Started With the Toolkit

## Software Requirements

### ArcGIS

Version 3.1.0 of the Oklahoma NG9-1-1 GIS Toolkit requires a license for Esri ArcGIS Pro to be installed on the user’s workstation. Tools have been tested for use in ArcGIS Pro 3.3 and may or may not function properly with other versions of ArcGIS.

### Python

The GIS Toolkit requires Python to be installed on the user’s workstation along with the ArcPy package, which is included with the user’s ArcGIS Pro installation. A Standard license is required. Python 3.11 is installed with ArcGIS Pro 3.3 as part of the `arcgispro-py3` environment; the Toolkit may or may not function properly with other versions of Python.

The Toolkit depends on some packages installed by default in the `arcgispro-py3` environment, so these dependencies must also be installed if the Toolkit is to be run using a different Python environment.

## GIS Toolkit Setup

### Download the NG9-1-1 GIS Toolkit to the User Workstation

The Oklahoma NG9-1-1 GIS Toolkit is available for download from the Oklahoma Geographic Information Council. The Toolkit is delivered as a zip file containing the tools and related documentation.

### Unzip the NG9-1-1 GIS Toolkit

Unzip the NG9-1-1 GIS Toolkit and save it to the user workstation. All files and folders must remain in their original structure for proper operation of the NG9-1-1 GIS Toolkit.

### Extract the NG9-1-1 GIS Toolkit to a Local Folder

Once the NG9-1-1 GIS Toolkit has been saved to the user workstation, extract it to a local folder on the workstation.

### Accessing the Toolkit

The Toolkit is most easily accessed and used by adding the ArcGIS Python Toolbox, `NG911_GIS_Toolkit_Pro.pyt`, to an ArcGIS Pro project.

## Structure of the Toolkit

Danger

Do not edit the structure of the files and folders of the Toolkit. Moving, renaming, or otherwise modifying the file and folder structure of the Toolkit may break it.

The Toolkit is comprised of a number of items:

Toolkit Contents
Item | Location | Purpose | Relevant to…
--- | --- | --- | ---
ArcGIS Python Toolbox | `/NG911_GIS_Toolkit_Pro.pyt` | Toolbox containing the tools for use in ArcGIS Pro | All Users
Documentation | `/Docs` | Toolkit documentation | All Users
Log Files | `/ng911ok.log` | Generated by using the Toolkit; contains log messages to help with debugging | Bug Reporters Toolkit Developers
`ng911ok` Python Package | `/ng911ok` | Python scripts used by the Toolbox | Advanced Users
YAML Configuration Files | `<Various>.yml` | Data files that define certain Toolkit behavior | Toolkit Developers
`Utilities` Directory | `/Utilities` | Additional Python utility scripts and data files | Advanced Users Toolkit Developers
Command Line Validation Script | `/quickvalidate.py` | Standalone Python script for running validation from the command line | Advanced Users

“Relevant to…” Key
Badge | Explanation
--- | ---
All Users | Everyone who uses the Toolkit
Bug Reporters | Anyone who is reporting a bug or seeking support
Advanced Users | Advanced users, such as those writing their own scripts
Toolkit Developers | Developers/maintainers of the Toolkit itself

Danger

Editing the YAML (`.yml`) configuration files may break the Toolkit or result in incorrect behavior.

### Python Toolbox

The Oklahoma Next Generation 9-1-1 GIS Toolkit includes GIS data management tools used by local, county, and state GIS and public safety personnel. The Toolkit includes an ArcGIS Python Toolbox made up of the following toolsets:

Toolset | Purpose
--- | ---
Prep | Prepares and standardizes local datasets.
Enhancement | Automates and simplifies tasks for creating and updating data.
Validation | Ensures compliance with the NG9-1-1 Standards.
MSAG | Compares NG911 data to MSAG data.
Comparison | Identifies differences between local and state data.
Submission | Packages the data to be uploaded to the repository.

Together, these tools support every step of the NG9-1-1 GIS workflow.

## Understanding Local GIS Data

### Assessing Local GIS Data Before Adopting State Standards

Before preparing data for NG9-1-1, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive assessment of local and regional GIS datasets. This step is often overlooked but plays a critical role in achieving compliance with the Oklahoma NG9-1-1 and Address Standard.

GIS managers and editors should develop a clear understanding of how existing GIS data supports current operational and business needs. This assessment helps identify data gaps, inconsistencies, or structural differences that must be addressed before aligning with state standards.

Because each GIS authority maintains unique datasets, this evaluation process will vary by jurisdiction. The resulting insights guide important decisions regarding how to:

- Edit and align data with the state’s schema and field values.

- Determine the scope and effort required to bring data into compliance.

- Plan for an efficient transition to NG9-1-1 readiness.

### Performing Initial Field Mapping Prior to Deploying the Toolkit

The NG9-1-1 GIS Toolkit includes field-mapping tools that automate the mapping of required data layers to the state standard. However, best practice recommends conducting an initial field-mapping exercise manually before using the toolkit.

Performing this using Excel or a similar application allows local GIS teams to:

- Review each field and document how it should be mapped.

- Record the purpose and business context of each attribute.

- Identify any existing business requirements or dependencies that could be affected by field changes.

Completing this preliminary mapping provides valuable insight into the dataset’s structure and ensures a smoother, more accurate deployment of the OkPrep field mapping tools later in the process.

## Oklahoma NG9-1-1 GIS Data Processes

### Local NG9-1-1 GIS Data Creation and Management

The State of Oklahoma NG9-1-1 GIS data repository is composed of datasets created and maintained by local PSAPs, counties, and GIS authorities, each at varying stages of NG9-1-1 readiness. Because of this variation, there is no single, universal approach to GIS data preparation.

Recognizing these challenges, the Oklahoma NG9-1-1 and Address Standard and the NG9-1-1 GIS Toolkit were developed to help GIS authorities transform their existing data into state-compliant, repository-ready datasets. These resources guide users through the process of evaluating, refining, and preparing their local GIS data for integration into the State of Oklahoma NG9-1-1/GIS Repository.

### Understanding Current GIS Data, State Standards, and the NG9-1-1 GIS Toolkit

A clear understanding of the current GIS data environment, combined with awareness of NG9-1-1 requirements, is essential for a successful transition. Each GIS authority or agency should evaluate its data to determine:

- Its current position on the path to NG9-1-1 readiness.

- The tools and workflows needed to create and manage an NG9-1-1 geodatabase.

- When its data will be ready for provisioning to the state repository.

This self-assessment provides a roadmap for compliance and shows users how existing datasets must be adjusted to meet Oklahoma’s NG9-1-1 data standards.

### Oklahoma NG9-1-1 GIS Training

The Oklahoma 9-1-1 Management Authority offers a comprehensive statewide NG9-1-1 GIS training program covering standards, tools, workflows, and data management best practices.

All GIS authorities and agencies are strongly encouraged to complete this training before beginning the NG9-1-1 GIS transformation process.

Training materials and recorded sessions are available online through the Authority, allowing for both initial instruction and refresher training as needed.