Validate a model

When building a model, the data and tools you add and connect are automatically validated, or the data and tools are automatically checked to ensure that the data exists, is valid for the tool, and that all tool parameters have been correctly specified. You can manually validate your model by clicking the Validate option in the Run group on the ModelBuilder tab.

If a tool element in the model has the status Parameter Check Failed and you are unsure which parameter settings are incorrect, you can use the Validate menu. The parameter validation messages provided in the output window will help you adjust the settings. Usually, performing this process once or multiple times is sufficient to correctly set all element parameters.

After the model is validated, all tool elements that pass the parameter check will be marked as validated. This allows the model to be run and produce the desired output data.

Note: If the model includes tools from modules without an active license, the model validation will fail and the output window will display information about the unauthorized modules. You must purchase the required module licenses according to the instructions to proceed.

Validating Data Variables

Data variables reference data paths and contain descriptive information about the data. When validating a model, each data variable is checked to ensure the data exists and can be used by the tools it is connected to. If any data variable references a non-existent data path, the variable becomes invalid and its color changes to white.

Validating Tools

Data processing tools automatically validate each parameter to ensure that its data or value is valid. If the data or value is invalid, an error message is displayed, the tool is marked as Parameter Check Failed, and its color changes to white. To fix a tool that fails parameter validation, double-click the tool to open it and modify the corresponding parameters or adjust its input or output data variables based on the error messages.