This article describes how to enable Databases for offline use, how the ActivityInfo application works offline, and how the synchronization of records drafts work (automatic or forced synchronization).
ActivityInfo’s mobile application works with a direct connection to the server, or with a local copy of the Database stored on the device (offline version).
Enabling offline mode
To be able to view selected Databases offline, follow these steps:
- Navigate to the Database you want to make available offline.
- Click “Download for offline use.”
- When the message appears “Database … is downloaded and ready to use offline”, you can safely disconnect from your network.
The Database is ready for offline use. You can review, collect, and update data in the Database without an internet connection.
The geolocation feature relies on the GPS receiver of the device, therefore it does not depend on internet connection.
Offline collection links
Collection links offer a way to collect responses to a Form. There are two types of collection links: web collection links or app collection links. Web collection links can be used in browsers on PC or mobile devices. App collection links are Progressive Web Apps (PWAs), that enable users to save the Form (to which you are trying to collect records for) as an app on their mobile devices.
If you received a web collection link, you will be redirected to the web interface of the Record collection. Working offline is not supported in this case.
On a mobile device, if you received an ActivityInfo app collection link, you will be prompted to save the Form as an app on your device. Once the Form is saved on your device, you can use it online or offline to add Records. For more information, see Submit a response through an app collection link.
Without internet connection (offline), Records are saved in a draft state. When reconnected to the internet, you need to inspect the drafts (valid or invalid). If you encounter invalid drafts that are marked with red, click on them to review and make any necessary corrections. When the record draft is marked valid, submit them to the server.
Automatic synchronization
When you have made a Database available offline, the Mobile app attempts to synchronize with the server every five minutes, downloading any changes from the server, and sending any pending changes from the mobile device to the server. These pending changes might be:
- Changes in Form design
- Database design
- Any changes to Record (new, deleted, modified)
- Updates to the audit log (only visible on the desktop)
Force synchronization
To force synchronization earlier, touch the top of the screen, and drag downwards to the bottom of the screen, then release your touch:
Remove offline data
To remove synchronized data from your device, navigate to your Database, and then click “Remove offline copy.”
Security precautions
When using an offline copy, data from your database for which you have view permission will be stored locally on the device. If your device is lost or stolen, this could put your organization’s data at risk. You can mitigate the risks of lost or stolen devices by taking the following steps:
- Use with mobile phone with encryption at rest. Devices with Android 7.0 and higher encrypt user data by default, as well as all iPhones and iPads. For other devices, check with your manufacturer.
- Set a screenlock.