Data Submission & Storage

Data Submissions

As described on Understand CommCare Data , there are several different types of data that are collected in CommCare. This describes how this data, notably form and case data, is submitted through CommCare.

Types of Data Submissions

Mobile Submissions

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When a mobile device is connected to the internet, completed forms are submitted directly to CommCareHQ, ensuring data is securely transmitted with encryption for confidentiality and integrity.

If the device is offline, forms are stored locally and automatically synced once an internet connection is available. Until a form is successfully submitted, it remains on the device. If automatic submission fails, mobile workers can manually retry by selecting “Sync with Server” from the home screen.

Once a form is submitted, it is erased from the device. However, essential case data needed for follow-ups is retained until the case is closed, at which point it is also removed.

You can read more about this here: CommCare Form Management Features

Web Submissions

Web users can submit data through CommCare in two ways: by entering new data via Web Applications or if you are submitting data online as a Web Users . All submissions require an active internet connection and are securely transmitted to CommCareHQ using encryption.

If a network issue occurs, users will see an error message and can retry once the connection is restored. Unlike mobile submissions, web forms are not stored locally and must be submitted online in real time. Once submitted, data is available for reporting, case management, and follow-ups.

API Submissions

In addition to mobile and web submissions, external systems can submit form data programmatically via CommCare’s APIs for integration with other platforms. Fore more information on Submission APIs, please visit this page: Submission APIarchived

Accessing and Managing Submitted Data

Submitted forms can be monitored, retrieved and managed through different methods, including through Pre-Configured Reports. You can also access your data through the Submission History.

All data is structured for efficient retrieval and analysis outside of CommCare, using tools such asData Exports or CommCare Integrations .

Data Submission Limits

CommCare does not impose a limit on the number of forms or cases that can be submitted

That said, CommCare does employ rate limiting to ensure fair usage and maintain system stability. If you encounter issues due to submission limits, refer to the Rate Limiting Documentation for troubleshooting and best practices: CommCare Rate Limiting

Data Storage

Data in CommCare is securely stored to ensure reliability and compliance with industry standards. All data at rest is encrypted using robust security protocols to protect sensitive information.

For details on security, see our Data Confidentiality & Security Overview as well as our general Data Security page.

Data Retention & Deletion Practices

Your data is securely retained in CommCare on a long-term basis and will remain available unless actively managed or deleted by users with the appropriate permissions. Users can manage their data retention policies within their project space.

Deleting Data

Users with the appropriate permissions can edit or remove data using CommCare’s Data Cleaning or Data Removal tools.

Deleting a Project Space

If you need to delete an entire project space or domain where data collection has taken place, please contact support following these guidelines: Delete or Archive a Project .