Synchronizing Data with TerraFlow Data Engine

Learn how to sync your field data with TerraFlow Data Engine using automatic or manual synchronization to keep your team's data up to date.

Time needed: 1-2 minutes for manual sync, 2 minutes for automatic sync setup

Before you start:

  • Ensure you have internet connectivity (cellular or WiFi)
  • Verify you're logged in to TerraFlow Mobile
  • Have data collected that needs to be synchronized
  • Know your organization's sync preferences (automatic vs. manual)

Step 1: Understanding Synchronization

TerraFlow Mobile can sync your collected data with Data Engine in two ways.

Automatic Sync runs on a schedule you set, attempting to upload data at regular intervals without any action required from you. This keeps your data current throughout the day.

Manual Sync gives you full control over when data is uploaded, which is useful when you want to sync only on WiFi or at specific times to manage data usage.

Most field crews use automatic sync during the day and perform a final manual sync when returning to the office or connecting to WiFi.

Step 2: Set Up Automatic Synchronization

Configure TerraFlow to automatically sync your data at regular intervals.

  1. Tap Settings
  2. Locate the synchronization settings in the General Settings section
  3. Toggle automatic sync to On
  4. Set the time interval for synchronization (e.g., every 5 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or 1 hour)

The system will now attempt to synchronize at the interval you set. If a sync attempt is unsuccessful (due to no internet connection), the system will automatically retry at the next scheduled time slot.

Shorter intervals keep data more current but use more battery and cellular data. Most users find 5-minute intervals provide a good balance.

Step 3: Perform Manual Synchronization

Use manual sync when you want control over when data uploads, such as when connected to WiFi.

  1. Tap Synchronize on the home screen
  2. On the Synchronize screen, review any pending changes
  3. Tap Synchronize to begin uploading data

Manual sync is especially useful at the end of your workday or when you have a large amount of data to upload over WiFi.

Step 4: Monitor Synchronization Status

Keep track of your sync status to ensure data is uploading successfully.

  • Check for pending uploads before leaving the field
  • Verify successful sync completion before closing the app

If you see pending data at the end of your shift, connect to WiFi and perform a manual sync to ensure everything uploads.

Troubleshooting

Automatic sync not running?

  • Verify automatic sync is toggled On in Settings
  • Check that you have an active internet connection
  • Confirm the time interval is set correctly
  • Restart TerraFlow Mobile if the issue persists

Sync failing repeatedly?

  • Verify you have internet connectivity (check your signal strength)
  • Ensure you're logged in with valid credentials - if not contact support
  • Try switching between WiFi and cellular data
  • Contact support if sync failures continue after troubleshooting

Don't see the Synchronize option?

  • Ensure you're on the home screen (not inside a project)
  • Verify you have permission to sync data
  • Check that you're logged in to your account
  • Update to the latest version of TerraFlow Mobile

Sync taking a long time?

  • Large amounts of data take longer to upload
  • Poor internet connection slows sync speed
  • Switch to WiFi for faster uploads of large datasets
  • Photos and attachments significantly increase sync time
  • Be patient—avoid interrupting the sync process

Unsure if data is synced?

  • Check the sync status page in the app
  • Check to see if there are pending changes
  • Perform a manual sync to confirm everything is uploaded
  • Contact your office to verify data appears in Data Engine

Tips for Success

  • Cellular data management: Use manual sync on WiFi to conserve data
  • WiFi strategy: Set automatic sync to off and manually sync when on WiFi if data usage is a concern
  • End-of-day routine: Always perform a manual sync before leaving the field or powering down
  • Large datasets: When collecting hundreds of points with photos, plan for longer sync times
  • Offline work: Data collection works offline—sync when you regain connectivity
  • Team coordination: Establish sync protocols so everyone's data appears in Data Engine promptly
  • Double-check before leaving: Always verify pending uploads are complete before ending your shift

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Need more help? Contact TerraFlow Support at support@terraflow.ca