How do I make GPS data (latitude and longitude) appear in my forms?

DataScope automatically records the device's latitude and longitude when you start answering a form from the mobile app.

You don't need to add a special question to the form to record this information. You just need to make sure DataScope has access to your device's location.

📍 When is the location recorded?

The answer's main location corresponds to the place where you started completing the form.

If you move around while filling it out and answer other questions from a different location, the answer's main location doesn't change.

For example:

You start a form at Location A.
While filling it out, you move to Location B.
The answer will keep Location A as its main location.

To learn what happens to GPS data when you modify an answer, see: What happens to GPS data if I modify an answer?

📱 How do I turn on location access?

For DataScope to record the location:

Turn on location services on your device.
Make sure the DataScope app has permission to access your location.
Open DataScope and answer the form again.

You can check the detailed steps here: How do I turn on location services for DataScope?

🎯 How do I improve location accuracy?

Location accuracy depends on the device and the conditions it's in. To get a more accurate location:

Turn on High Accuracy GPS from the app's settings.
Try to use the device in open spaces.
Make sure location services are turned on.
Keep the device with enough battery.

Note: turning on High Accuracy GPS may increase the device's battery consumption.

⚠️ What if DataScope can't get my location?

If the device can't determine a location at the time the answer is recorded, the GPS information might be left blank or use the last available location, depending on the device's conditions.

See: What happens if there's no GPS signal in the place where information is being collected?

The margin of error for the geolocation used will depend on the accuracy of the device being used. Here's some reference information:

Standard GPS accuracy: without additional assistance, standard GPS accuracy on Android devices is generally within a range of 4.9 meters (16 feet) under open-sky conditions. However, this can be significantly affected by factors such as obstacles (buildings, trees), atmospheric conditions, and the quality of the device's GPS receiver.
High accuracy mode (Assisted GPS or AGPS): when using AGPS, which combines GPS with Wi-Fi data, cell towers, and other sensors, accuracy can improve significantly. In urban environments with good network connectivity and minimal obstructions, accuracy can be within a few meters.

📌 Remember

You don't need to set up a GPS question within the form. DataScope automatically records the location when an answer starts, as long as the device can obtain the location and has the necessary permissions.