# FAIMS Mobile Platform

> The Field Acquired Information Management Systems (FAIMS) Mobile Platform is open-source software for offline data collection on a mobile device.

**Wikidata**: [Q126084956](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q126084956)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/faims-mobile-platform

## Summary
The FAIMS Mobile Platform is an open-source software tool designed for offline data collection on mobile devices, particularly used in fieldwork for social sciences and humanities research. It operates on both Android and iOS systems and is developed by the University of New South Wales. The platform streamlines data capture and management in remote or disconnected environments.

## Key Facts
- **Open-source software**: Licensed under GPL-3.0 for collaborative development and free use.
- **Supported platforms**: Runs on Android and iOS operating systems.
- **Developed by**: The University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Australia.
- **Versions**: Key releases include 2.6 (2020) and 3.0 (2022), with 3.0 being the preferred version.
- **Integration**: Listed in the Social Sciences and Humanities Open Marketplace and the Text Analysis Portal for Research (TAPoR).
- **Primary function**: Enables offline digital capturing of field-acquired data for research purposes.
- **Website**: Official site at [https://faims.edu.au/](https://faims.edu.au/), available in English.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the main purpose of the FAIMS Mobile Platform?
A: The FAIMS Mobile Platform is designed for offline data collection on mobile devices, supporting fieldwork in social sciences, humanities, and other research disciplines.

### Q: Which operating systems does FAIMS support?
A: FAIMS is compatible with both Android and iOS, ensuring accessibility across a wide range of mobile devices.

### Q: Is FAIMS free to use?
A: Yes, as open-source software under the GPL-3.0 license, FAIMS is freely available for use, modification, and distribution.

## Why It Matters
The FAIMS Mobile Platform addresses a critical need in field research: reliable data collection in environments with limited or no internet connectivity. By providing a robust, offline-capable tool, FAIMS enhances the efficiency and accuracy of data gathering in disciplines such as archaeology, anthropology, and environmental science. Its open-source nature fosters collaboration and customization, allowing researchers to tailor the platform to specific project requirements. As a result, FAIMS has become a key resource in the Social Sciences and Humanities Open Marketplace, promoting interoperability and innovation in digital scholarship. By reducing barriers to data collection, FAIMS supports the creation of rigorous, reusable datasets that advance research outcomes and knowledge sharing.

## Notable For
- **Offline-first design**: Prioritizes functionality in remote areas without internet access, a unique advantage for field researchers.
- **Cross-platform compatibility**: Operates seamlessly on both Android and iOS, maximizing accessibility for global users.
- **Integration with research ecosystems**: Featured in platforms like the SSH Open Marketplace and TAPoR, ensuring alignment with academic standards.
- **Community-driven development**: Open-source model encourages contributions from researchers and developers worldwide.
- **Specialized applications**: Widely used in projects funded by the European Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) cluster.

## Body
### Development & History
- **Origins**: Developed by the University of New South Wales to address field data management challenges.
- **Version Timeline**:
  - **2.6 (2020)**: Early version supporting core offline data capture.
  - **3.0 (2022)**: Major update with enhanced features, designated as the preferred release.

### Technical Specifications
- **Operating Systems**: Compatible with Android (since 2008) and iOS (Apple’s mobile OS).
- **Key Features**:
  - Offline data collection with synchronization capabilities.
  - Customizable workflows for diverse research methodologies.
  - Integration with web platforms for post-fieldwork analysis.

### Applications & Impact
- **Research Fields**: Used in archaeology, anthropology, ecology, and cultural heritage studies.
- **Funding & Recognition**: Supported by initiatives like the European SSH Open Marketplace, promoting its use in interdisciplinary projects.
- **Accessibility**: Free access via [https://faims.edu.au/](https://faims.edu.au/), with documentation in English.

### Related Resources
- **Documentation**: Available at [https://tapor.ca/tools/721](https://tapor.ca/tools/721) and [https://marketplace.sshopencloud.eu/tool-or-service/qdn5Ar](https://marketplace.sshopencloud.eu/tool-or-service/qdn5Ar).
- **Community**: Part of the TAPoR network, facilitating training and support for researchers.

## References

1. [Source](https://marketplace.sshopencloud.eu/tool-or-service/qdn5Ar)
2. [Source](https://tapor.ca/tools/721)
3. [2020](https://faims.edu.au/about/#timeline)