Tracking Progress Initiative

Step 5

Data Storage & Sharing

Before starting to use the tool, it is very important for you to understand and make decisions about:

  • Types of installations for the tool
  • Where your data will be stored
  • Who will have access to it
  • Who it will be shared with
  • Your internet access/connectivity

Types of installations

The Tracking Progress tool can be used directly through the Global Installation or it can be used through a Local Installation. Each type of installation has important implications that must be understood before deciding how to proceed.

The installation type you choose can be changed at any point.

Global Installation

The Tracking Progress tool is already installed on a global server, and is available to everyone who chooses a global installation. This server is supported by Better Care Network (BCN) and managed securely by a service provider in the USA. Using this installation means that there is no need to have a local IT team or servers to manage, and there are no costs associated with it. Using this installation, however, means that your data is located remotely and it can potentially be shared with others if you authorize it. It can always be accessed by the Administrator (BCN), although access will not be sought without prior authorization and will only be for management of the tool, not to access the content of the tool.

Local Installation

The tool is also available for download and to be installed on your own private server. For those who are working with limited internet access or poor connectivity, the local installation will be a better option as you will be able to use the tool offline if you download it to your local network. A local IT team will need to handle the installation and management of the tool. Also, you will need a server to host the tool. Using this installation means that you have sole control over your data and the tool at the local level and it cannot be shared with others in different countries. The recommended server requirements are as follows:

  • LAMP server (Linux Apache MySQL PHP)
  • Minimum 250 MB disk space
  • MySQL 4.1.0 or later
  • PHP 5.3 or later with the following modules/libraries enabled:
    • mbstring (Multibyte String Functions) extension library
    • PDO database driver for MySQL (pdo_mysql or pdo_mysqli)
    • Also we assume in general that all PHP default libraries are enabled (like hash, session, etc.).

If you are interested in group collaboration, please speak with your IT manager to make sure all in your group have appropriate access.

Where will the data be stored?

Global Installation

The Tracking Progress tool is installed on a global server. As such, the information will be stored on our premises.

Local Installation

The tool will be installed on your own private premises and the data will be stored on your premises.

Who will have access to the data?

Global Installation

If you have decided to use the global tool, the information will be available to Administrators of the tool and Managers of the initiative.

Local Installation

If you have chosen to use the tool on your own local installation, the information will be available to the Administrators of your installation and any designated managers.

Click here for a guide on how to install the Tool on a local server.

Who will the data be shared with?

Global Installation

While entering data in the tool, you will be asked if you would like to share your information publicly. If so, your answers will be available to everyone through the "Compare Data" section.

Local Installation

While entering data in the tool, you will be asked if you would like to share your information. If so, your answers will be available to everyone with access to the local installation through the "Compare Data" section.

Click here for a guide to troubleshooting technical issues on the Tool.