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ODE Formulus

Formulus is an offline-first mobile app available for Android and iOS that enables seamless data collection in environments with limited connectivity. It allows users to collect data offline and synchronize it with a synkronus server when connectivity is restored. The app also displays your custom application as the main entry point, providing a tailored user experience.

Installation​

Early Development Phase

Formulus is currently in early development. The app is only available for Android and requires installation via Android Debug Bridge (adb).

You can download the latest version from the GitHub releases page (available after the first alpha release) and install it on your Android device using the following command:

adb install formulus.apk

System Requirements:

  • Android 7.0 (API level 24) or higher
  • Developer options enabled on your device
  • USB debugging enabled

We are actively working to make the app available through official app stores for both Android and iOS platforms.

Usage​

Initial Setup​

When you first launch Formulus, you'll be prompted to connect to your synkronus server:

  1. Server Configuration: Enter your server URL and credentials
  2. Authentication: Log in with the username and password you created in your synkronus instance
  3. Synchronization: The app will download your custom application specification, including:
    • Form definitions and schemas
    • UI render packs (powered by jsonforms)
    • Custom styling and branding

Main Interface​

Once authenticated, Formulus displays your custom application as the primary interface, providing seamless access to your data collection workflows.

Key Features​

Formulus serves as a comprehensive wrapper around your custom application, providing essential mobile data collection capabilities:

  • Offline-First Architecture: Collect data without internet connectivity
  • Automatic Synchronization: Seamlessly sync with your synkronus server when online
  • Advanced Form Rendering: Powered by jsonforms with support for:
    • Native device features (camera, GPS, file storage)
    • Rich input types and validation
    • Custom UI components
  • Robust Data Management: Secure local storage with conflict resolution
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Consistent experience across Android and iOS

Using Formulus without a Custom App​

Alpha Feature

This feature is currently in alpha development and may be unstable. Use with caution in production environments.

Formulus can operate in standalone mode without requiring a custom application. To use this feature:

  1. Download and Install: Follow the installation instructions above
  2. Server Connection: Log in directly to your synkronus server using your credentials
  3. Form Access: Formulus will automatically display a list of all forms available in your synkronus instance

This mode is ideal for:

  • Quick prototyping and testing form designs
  • Simple data collection workflows that don't require custom UI
  • Getting started with ODE before developing a full custom application