What it does
ODK combines spreadsheet-based form design, a Central server, Android collection and browser forms. It supports offline fieldwork, photos, location fields, calculations and multiple languages. Teams can run the open-source software themselves or pay for managed ODK Cloud.
Build an XLSForm spreadsheet, then upload it to ODK Central, test it and publish it. For field staff, create an App User, assign the form and scan that user's QR code in ODK Collect on Android. Choose Fill Blank Form to begin collecting. For people answering independently, create and share a public browser link instead.
Both collection routes can work offline and synchronize when connected. Back in Central, inspect the table or map and export CSV for analysis. Administration requires a Central account; a public respondent link serves a different purpose.
Hosting and project limits
Self-hosted, self-supported ODK is free to use. Central and Collect use Apache 2.0 licences. Running Central yourself means supplying and maintaining the server.
| ODK Cloud plan | Active projects | Monthly submissions |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 1 | 10,000 |
| Professional | 1 | 25,000 |
| Enterprise | 10 or more, by agreement | 100,000 or more, by agreement |
Cloud includes unlimited forms and users; Professional adds Entities for passing data between forms and API access. Exporting counts as project activity, and allowances cover all projects together.
Managed access requires payment; the 14-day refund period starts afterward. A demonstration is available before subscribing.
Strengths
- Android and browser forms suit both staffed and participant-led collection.
- Offline answers synchronize with Central when a connection returns.
Watch out for
- Exporting data can keep a Cloud project within the active-project count.
- Self-hosting requires server setup and maintenance.
Best for
- Field research teams collecting structured forms where internet access is intermittent
Sources
- ODK product and Cloud pricing (Oct 27, 2026)
- Getting started with ODK (Oct 27, 2026)
- ODK Terms of Service (Oct 27, 2026)
- Central Apache License 2.0 (Oct 25, 2026)
- Collect Apache License 2.0 (Oct 25, 2026)