Getting Started With ODK¶
This document walks you through the recommended workflow to get started with ODK.
You will:
Get a Central server¶
The easiest way to get a Central server is by using ODK Cloud.
ODK Cloud provides fast Central servers with regular feature updates, automatic security patches, daily backups, uptime management, enterprise security, and guaranteed support on any issues.
If you are technical and prefer to self-host, we recommend you install Central on DigitalOcean.
Get the Collect app¶
The easiest way to get the Collect app is to download it from the Google Play Store.
You can also install manually from an APK.
Create a form with XLSForm and upload it to Central¶
- Create a document in your favorite spreadsheet tool (Excel, Google Sheets, etc)
- Design your form using XLSForm or try a sample XLSForm.
- Upload the form to Central.
Load a form into Collect from Central¶
- Find or create an App User in Central
- Open Collect on your Android device
- Tap Configure via QR code from the menu at the top right ()
- Scan the QR code from Central
- Go back to the app home screen and select Get Blank Form, then select your form.
Fill out a form and upload it to Central¶
- Select Fill Blank Form to complete a survey.
- Select Send Finalized Form to upload your completed survey to Central.
Now log back into Central and see your completed survey results.