How to automate compressing (.zip) the Survey123 databases folder on client devices

[PhilHickey_ntg]

For a data recovery workflow I need the Survey123 databases folder of the client devices to be zipped.  However,  the users find it too hard to locate the folder and perform the zip.

Is there a way to launch a shell script or something similar from a Survey123 app?

Could it be perhaps be attached to the install process described in this link?

https://community.esri.com/t5/arcgis-survey123-blog/unattended-uninstall-and-install-of-survey123/ba...

[Anonymous User · Accepted solution]

Hi @PhilHickey_ntg,

What sort of devices and OS are your users using that you want to recover from, as this could make accessing the data and creating an automated script difficult. On Windows it is easy, but on iOS and Android the file location for app data is stored in secure storage and is not easily accessible, and only allowed to be accessed via the host application.

There is a enterprise property (AppConfig application level configurable property) that allows an option to be enabled called enableDataRecovery. This will enable an option in the settings to zip up the survey database and attachments and email or share them to another app via the device.

Please refer to following documentation and blog post. This can be configured via an MDM or custom AppStudio app using Survey123 template.

https://doc.arcgis.com/en/survey123/reference/enterpriseproperties.htm

https://community.esri.com/t5/arcgis-survey123-blog/configure-survey123-properties-in-your-mdm-with-...

Regards,

Phil.

[PhilHickey_ntg · Accepted solution]

The enableDataRecovery option looks exactly like what I need.  There is so much variation in phones I felt the script I had in mind was unlikely to be robust.  This looks like a great feature,  I think it is worth highlighting some more and perhaps making it easier to find and activate

[DougBrowning]

James helped us make a Export to zip tool using the new Add-Ins feature.  Add-Ins are still in beta but if you want it dm me and I can send what we got so far.  Works slick so far.

[PhilHickey_ntg]

Add-ins will be great when the get into production.  Sadly we are bit behind on the releases as it takes a while for each release to clear corporate security.  Will explore this as an option for the future though as it looks quite promising.