Multimedia in CommCare

Overview



What is multimedia in CommCare?

CommCare supports the use of multimedia files in an application. The term “multimedia” refers to a variety of different communicative data formats, e.g. images, audio recordings, or videos. Multimedia can change the way in which the end-user engages with the CommCare application. It can enhance the level of interactivity between user and application. It also supports end-users when application training is limited. 

What value does multimedia offer in CommCare?

Humans process visual and verbal information easier than written information. This is especially true in low literacy communities. The ability to make use of multimedia in CommCare ensures that vital information is made easily available to the end-users. Using a video or audio recording can help convey an important message with stronger accentuation than simply written text. While the textual content is important, multimedia can enhance the user’s experience with CommCare. 

How do you use multimedia in CommCare?

Incorporating Multimedia files

The CommCare application builders can incorporate multimedia files into the CommCare application. This will enable end-users to effectively communicate important information during their use of the application.

Use case



Below is an example of incorporating multimedia into a CommCare application.

   





Capturing Multimedia files

The CommCare application builders can enable the multimedia capture functionality in the CommCare application. This will help end-users to record important information or evidence during their use of the application.

Use case



Below is an example of capturing multimedia in a CommCare application.

    



IMPORTANT NOTE: Mobile users can’t see pictures on their mobile phones after taking them. Pictures are sent to CommCare HQ and can be accessed there. The doctors will be able to monitor the rash by viewing the pictures in CommCare HQ.



What type of multimedia files does CommCare support?

CommCare can support a variety of media types depending upon your phone. We recommend using the following:

Media Category

Recommended File Type

Detailed Resources

Video

3GP

Image

PNG

Audio

MP3