Note: This example uses addresses, but other attributes can be used.

1. Compile Address Table – This can be done in excel, access, or other compatible file format .

Read more on: Excel in ArcGIS Desktop

2. Create Address Locator – The address locator will be based upon the data that needs to be located and the reference data.

• Open ArcCatalog
• Open desired folder for Locator to be saved in
• Right click in contents area
• Click New -> Address Locator…

3. Choose Locator Style – This will depend upon the source data and reference data.  These data types need to correlate.

4. Set Address Locator Options

• Name and Description
• Reference data – The data you will match to such as address points, streets, or city points.
• Match corresponding fields – This will vary by locator style.  US Streets is shown here.
• Set Matching Options – You will find which configuration works best through trial and error.
• Click Ok

Your locator has now been create and is shown in ArcCatalog via the “House” icon.

5. Add Address Table to Map – You can add Excel tables directly into ArcMap (9.2 or later) or create a .dbf table to be added in.

6. Right Click Table -> Geocode Addresses…

7. Add  Locator to Map and Select it to be Used – You will need to browse to the folder (via the “Add..” button) that contains the created locator.

8. Complete Locator/Geocoding  Options

• Select Corresponding Input Fields
• Choose Output Location
• Click Ok

Status is updated during geocoding process and results are shown on map.

10. You can Review or Rematch Any Address

• Right Click on geocoded point file in Table of Contents
• Data -> Review/Rematch ddresses…
• Follow options in Interactive Rematch Dialog