Effective data collection and reporting are essential for monitoring issues, gathering feedback, and making informed decisions across various sectors. The ArcGIS Reporter Instant Apps provide a flexible, map-based platform that enables organizations to collect, manage, and respond to submitted reports seamlessly through desktop and mobile devices.
Designed for both public and user-authenticated access, this configurable app allows users to submit reports, review updates, and interact with existing records through an intuitive web-based interface. Whether it’s tracking infrastructure issues, collecting environmental observations, or managing internal workflows, the Reporter Instant App helps streamline data collection and enhance collaboration.
With just a feature layer that supports editing capabilities, organizations can quickly configure and deploy the app to support a variety of workflows, from crowdsourced public participation to secure, authenticated data submissions.
To explore the app’s versatility, look at two key use cases that highlight how the Reporter Instant App can be leveraged for different needs.
Use Case 1: Monitoring Environmental Concerns
Environmental agencies rely on community participation to identify and address issues like illegal dumping, water pollution, and habitat destruction. The Reporter Instant App empowers individuals to take action by allowing them to document incidents with:
- Precise location details on the map with customized map styles
- Descriptions to provide context through the feature pop-up
- Photos and other supported documents for additional evidence
This crowdsourced data helps organizations prioritize environmental challenges and allocate resources more effectively.
How to Enable Reporting in the App
To activate this functionality:
- Go to the configuration panel and enable the Reporting capability.
- Customize the Report button text if needed.
Once enabled, users can report an issue through the following steps:
- Choose the layer to submit a report on
- Pinpoint locations directly on the map
- Fill out a detailed form, configured as a feature form in Map Viewer
- Attach photos or other supported documents for better context
With this seamless reporting process, environmental organizations can leverage real-time community insights to drive more efficient and informed decision-making.
Use Case 2: Community Participation in City Development
While reporting environmental concerns is critical, community engagement also plays a vital role in shaping local development. The Reporter Instant App enables residents to participate in city planning decisions, such as new park development plans, road improvements, and environmental restoration efforts, and provide meaningful feedback on upcoming projects.
How to Enable Non-Reporting (also referred to as Polling) Mode
For scenarios where users should only review reports (without submitting new ones), disable the Reporting capability in the configuration panel. The options discussed below are available for both reporting and non-reporting workflows.
Once inside the app, users can:
- Browse submitted reports to review proposed developments
- Express their opinion by voting like or dislike on existing reports
- Join the conversation by adding comments, suggestions, or community-led initiatives
How to Enable User Engagement Features
To foster this interactive experience, enable the voting and commenting options in the app’s configuration panel. This allows users to:
- Vote on reports to express approval or disagreement
- Add comments to share additional context, evidence, or ideas along with supporting documents
Enhancing Usability with Filter, Search, and Sort Options
To improve accessibility and navigation:
- Configure attribute filters for each layer to refine reports
- Enable full-index search to locate reports by searching the configured fields
- Configure sorting options to help users easily review reports
From reporting environmental concerns to gathering public feedback on city projects, the Reporter Instant App enables organizations to make data-driven decisions with real community insights that foster engagement and create meaningful change.
Learn more about the Reporter Instant App’s features
What’s New in Reporter Instant App (November 2024)
What’s New in Reporter Instant App (February 2025)
Happy app building!
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