Training Course on Advanced Mobile Data Collection using ODK-X (ODK2)

Introduction

As the demand for robust, scalable, and flexible data collection systems continues to grow, the Training Course on Advanced Mobile Data Collection using ODK-X (formerly ODK2) offers participants the opportunity to gain hands-on expertise in one of the most powerful platforms for field-based data capture and management. Unlike its predecessor (ODK Collect), ODK-X provides enhanced capabilities for longitudinal data collection, complex survey logic, case management, offline workflows, and custom interfaces making it ideal for large-scale development, research, and monitoring projects.

This advanced course is designed to equip data managers, M&E professionals, field supervisors, researchers, and technical teams with the skills to develop, deploy, and manage ODK-X applications. Participants will learn how to build custom forms, configure the ODK-X framework, work with tools like XLSX Converter and Application Designer, and implement JavaScript-based logic for dynamic form behavior. The course also covers syncing mechanisms, offline-first capabilities, and working with ODK-X services such as Survey, Tables, Services, and Sync-Endpoint.

Through a combination of guided tutorials, real-life project simulations, and practical exercises, participants will gain the ability to design solutions tailored to complex data collection needs such as longitudinal studies, case tracking, and multi-actor workflows. Emphasis is placed on designing modular and reusable data structures that can adapt to changing project needs.

By the end of the course, participants will be proficient in creating custom ODK-X apps, managing collected data, and integrating mobile data workflows with back-end databases and dashboards. This training is ideal for organizations seeking to build sustainable, scalable, and context-specific mobile data collection systems with advanced control and flexibility.

Duration

10 days

Who should Attend?

This course is ideal for a wide range of professionals:

·         Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Officers who need to implement sophisticated data collection workflows for development programs, health surveys, education tracking, and other projects requiring real-time or longitudinal data.

·         Data Managers and Analysts responsible for overseeing mobile data collection systems, ensuring data quality, and integrating data into centralized analysis platforms or dashboards.

·         Researchers and Field Coordinators engaged in longitudinal studies, cohort tracking, or multi-round surveys where dynamic form logic and case management are critical.

·         ICT4D Practitioners and Technical Staff working with NGOs, government agencies, or donor-funded projects seeking to develop and maintain robust digital data solutions.

·         Program Managers and Project Officers overseeing data-driven decision-making processes and requiring custom tools to streamline data flow from the field to the office.

·         ODK Collect Users Seeking Advanced Features who are ready to transition from ODK Collect (ODK1) to the more flexible and customizable ODK-X platform.

·         Database Developers and System Integrators interested in connecting mobile data collection systems with backend data warehouses, analytics engines, or cloud storage solutions.

·         Software Developers and App Designers who wish to build or customize mobile data apps using JavaScript, HTML, and the ODK-X Application Designer for specialized field applications.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course the learners should be able to:

·         Understand the architecture and core components of the ODK-X (ODK2) tool suite, including Survey, Tables, Services, Sync-Endpoint, and Application Designer.

·         Design and develop custom mobile data collection applications using ODK-X tools for complex and longitudinal field data collection needs.

·         Build and deploy interactive and dynamic forms with JavaScript, HTML, and XLSX Converter, enabling advanced logic, multimedia integration, and custom user interfaces.

·         Implement case management and follow-up tracking systems that support multi-visit workflows and multi-user interactions in offline settings.

·         Configure and manage ODK-X Sync-Endpoint servers for secure, scalable, and real-time data synchronization between mobile devices and centralized databases.

·         Work effectively with the ODK-X Tables app to visualize and manage relational datasets on mobile devices.

·         Ensure data quality through validation logic, user prompts, and conditional formatting within forms and applications.

·         Enable offline-first data workflows that support environments with limited or intermittent connectivity, ensuring continuity in data collection.

·         Integrate ODK-X data with external systems and databases for data analysis, visualization, and reporting using tools like PostgreSQL, Power BI, or Excel.

·         Apply best practices in form design, data security, version control, and project documentation to support scalable and sustainable mobile data systems.

·         Gain practical skills through hands-on exercises and simulations, building real-world mobile data collection apps from design to deployment.

Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to ODK-X Framework

• Overview of mobile data collection technologies
• Introduction to ODK-X and its evolution from ODK1 (ODK Collect)
• Key differences between ODK and ODK-X: flexibility, customization, and case management
• ODK-X architecture and workflow overview
• Real-world use cases for ODK-X in complex field environments

Module 2: Core Structure and Components of ODK-X

• Internal structure of an ODK-X application
• Key components: Survey, Tables, Services, Application Designer, Sync-Endpoint
• Understanding the roles and integration of each tool
• Overview of client-server synchronization and offline-first design

Module 3: Introduction to ODK-X Tool Suite

• Overview of ODK-X tools and their functionalities
• Survey: Complex form rendering and logic
• Tables: Visualizing and managing relational datasets
• Services: Core utility and sync management
• ODK Suitcase: Exporting, importing, and backing up data
• ODK Cloud Endpoints: Server infrastructure and access management

Module 4: Setting Up and Migrating an ODK-X Application

• Installation of the ODK-X Tool Suite
• Setting up the ODK Aggregate or Sync-Endpoint server (local and cloud-based)
• Joining a device to an existing server
• Resetting the application and database on the server
• Considerations for migrating from ODK1 to ODK-X

Module 5: Device Configuration and Deployment

• Setting up the ODK Application Designer environment
• Connecting devices to the development workspace
• Deploying applications to Android devices or emulators
• Resetting and synchronizing devices
• Testing application functionality and syncing

Module 6: Customizing and Modifying ODK-X Applications

• Modifying data entry forms (JSON) and using the XLSX Converter
• Updating initialization files and metadata
• Preloading data and customizing HTML views
• Using JavaScript interfaces to add interactivity and custom logic
• Maintaining version control of app files using Git

Module 7: Application Development with ODK-X

• Designing forms in ODK Survey using XLSX and JSON formats
• Creating custom views in ODK Tables (list, detail, map views)
• Working with data relationships and linked tables
• Managing multi-level and repeatable forms
• Developing interactive web pages for Tables using JavaScript, HTML, and CSS

Module 8: Advanced Features and Case Management

• Designing case-based workflows and user-driven logic
• Implementing longitudinal studies and follow-up visits
• Setting up relational data structures and look-up tables
• User roles and conditional visibility in forms
• Customizing navigation and interfaces for enumerators

Module 9: Server Tools and Data Synchronization

• Overview of ODK-X Sync-Endpoint setup
• User authentication and access control
• Pushing and pulling files using grunt and ODK Suitcase
• Syncing multiple devices and managing conflicts
• Server backup, logs, and monitoring tools

Module 10: Data Export, Management, and Integration

• Exporting data using ODK Suitcase and direct database access
• Working with JSON and CSV outputs
• Integrating ODK-X with external systems (e.g., PostgreSQL, Power BI, R, Excel)
• Automating data cleaning and preparation workflows
• Data quality checks and audit trails

Module 11: Multimedia and Device Sensor Integration

• Capturing GPS coordinates, images, audio, barcodes, and video
• Managing large media files in sync and export processes
• Incorporating device sensors into form logic (e.g., accelerometer, compass)
• Use of QR codes for field operations and identification

Module 12: Best Practices, Troubleshooting, and Maintenance

• Debugging common issues in ODK-X apps
• Managing app updates and changes in the field
• Best practices in folder structuring, naming conventions, and file organization
• Documentation standards for maintainable projects
• Data protection, privacy, and ethical mobile data collection

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: training@upskilldevelopment.com Tel: +254 721 331 808

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Upskill Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Upskill certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: training@upskilldevelopment.com, +254 721 331 808

Terms of Payment

Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties payment of the course fee should be done 3 working days before commencement of the training so as to enable us to prepare better.