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Create a Scenario

Scenarios in GOAT let you modify data without affecting your original datasets. Think of them as "sandbox" environments for planning experiments.

Understanding Scenarios​

What is a Scenario?​

A scenario is a parallel version of your project where you can:

  • Add new features (buildings, POIs, roads)
  • Modify existing features
  • Delete features
  • Run analyses to compare with baseline
Scenario Indicator

The scenario indicator shows when you're working in a scenario

Baseline vs. Scenario​

BaselineScenario
Current real-world dataHypothetical changes
Cannot be modifiedFully editable
Your reference pointYour planning proposal

Step-by-Step Instructions​

1. Open Scenario Manager​

In your project, click on the Scenarios panel in the left sidebar.

2. Create New Scenario​

  1. Click "+ New Scenario"
  2. Name your scenario descriptively, e.g.:
    • "New Community Center - Location A"
    • "2030 Transit Expansion"
    • "Bike Lane Network Phase 1"
  3. Optionally add a description explaining the scenario

3. Scenario Settings​

Configure your scenario:

  • Base data - Which layers to include from baseline
  • Editable layers - Which layers you can modify
  • Analysis scope - Geographic extent of analysis

4. Activate the Scenario​

Click "Activate" to switch from baseline to your scenario.

Visual Indicator

When a scenario is active, you'll see a colored indicator in the toolbar. This reminds you that changes won't affect real data.

Best Practices for Scenarios​

Naming Convention​

Use clear, consistent names:

[Year]_[Project]_[Variant]

Examples:
2026_NewSchool_LocationA
2026_NewSchool_LocationB  
2030_MetroExtension_Phase1

Document Your Changes​

For each scenario, keep notes on:

  • What features were added/changed
  • Assumptions made
  • Data sources for new features
  • Analysis parameters used

Version Control​

Create multiple scenarios to compare alternatives:

ScenarioDescription
BaselineCurrent state
Option ACommunity center in north
Option BCommunity center in south
Option CTwo smaller centers

Next Step​

Your scenario is ready! Now let's add new features to model your planning proposal.

Progress: 1 of 4 steps completed