Build custom data collection forms for any operational need. From infrastructure inspections to field surveys, create dynamic forms with 17 field types, GeoPackage persistence, and powerful spatial queries — all without writing code.
The Adhoc Forms Module provides a no-code form builder optimized for tactical and field operations. Design forms in the field, share templates across teams, and collect structured data that integrates seamlessly with your ATAK workflow.
A civil affairs team needs to conduct infrastructure assessments in a newly secured area. Instead of using paper forms or external apps, they build a custom inspection form directly in ATAK with fields for structure type, condition, GPS location, photos, and notes. All data syncs with team markers automatically.
The form builder supports 17 different field types to capture any data you need. From simple text to complex spatial selections, each field type is optimized for mobile data entry in field conditions.
| Field Type | Use Case | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Text | Names, descriptions, notes | Single line, validation, max length |
| TextArea | Long descriptions, observations | Multi-line, word count |
| Number | Quantities, measurements | Min/max, decimal precision, units |
| Dropdown | Fixed option selection | Single select, custom options |
| MultiSelect | Multiple choices | Checkboxes, select all that apply |
| DateTime | Timestamps, schedules | Date picker, time picker, defaults |
| Location | GPS coordinates | Auto-fill from device, manual entry |
| Photo | Image documentation | Camera capture, gallery select |
| Signature | Authorization, receipt | Touch capture, timestamp |
| MapPoint | Location on map | Tap to select, coordinate display |
| MapPolygon | Area definition | Draw on map, vertex editing |
| MapLine | Route or boundary | Draw line, distance calculation |
| Checkbox | Boolean values | Yes/No, True/False |
| Rating | Assessment scores | Star rating, numeric scale |
| EntitySelect | Link to existing marker | Select from map entities |
| TeamMember | Assign to team member | Select from roster |
| Barcode | Asset scanning | QR code, barcode scanner |
Form submissions are stored in GeoPackage format, the OGC standard for geospatial data exchange. This ensures interoperability with GIS tools like QGIS, ArcGIS, and GDAL while enabling powerful spatial queries directly in ATAK.
Beyond simple data storage, forms support spatial queries that leverage the geographic nature of your data. Find all inspections within an AOI, identify nearby reports, or analyze patterns across an area of operations.
| Query Type | Description | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Within AOI | Find records inside a polygon | All inspections in current sector |
| Near Point | Find records within distance | Nearby reports for situational awareness |
| Along Route | Find records near a line | Route reconnaissance review |
| Intersects | Find overlapping areas | Conflict detection with AOIs |
Save time with pre-built form templates for common use cases. Import templates from other team members or export your own for organizational standardization. Templates include field definitions, validation rules, and display preferences.
A headquarters team develops standardized inspection forms for a multinational exercise. They export the templates as JSON files and distribute them to partner nation teams. Each team imports the templates and begins collecting compatible data immediately, enabling cross-force analysis.
Create dynamic forms that adapt based on user input. Show or hide fields, set default values, and validate data based on previous responses. This reduces cognitive load and ensures data quality.
Forms integrate deeply with ATAK's mapping and marker system. Form submissions can create map markers, link to existing entities, and appear in spatial queries. The two-way integration ensures forms enhance rather than replace your tactical workflow.