Technology Platform

DHIS2 features a flexible, customizable and internationalized platform based on open-source principles and designed to run in resource-challenged environments

Web Enabled

DHIS2 is a web application based on standard Java technology. This means that the application runs on any Java enabled web server or servlet container, and can be accessed via a web browser over the Internet. DHIS2 can be deployed on a national online server or hosted in the cloud, as well deployed in an intranet offline setting.

Extensible with apps

The DHIS2 platform allows you to create and install custom apps on any running instance. DHIS2 features a rich RESTful Web API, allowing for apps to be built using purely Web technologies such as Javascript, CSS and HTML5. The DHIS2 App Hub allows independent developers to share their apps with the DHIS2 community.

Platform independent

DHIS2 is written in Java. Java applications runs on any platform for which there exists a Java Runtime Environment, in practice all popular platforms including Windows, Linux, Mac OS X and Solaris.

Runs on all major web browsers

DHIS2 is written according to the W3C standard for HTML and CSS and runs on any standard compliant web browser like Chrome, Firefox, Opera, the latest Safari and Edge. The DHIS2 team recommends Chrome as it provides excellent performance for Javascript-intensive applications like DHIS2.

Configured for mobile data entry

In addition to the standard web browser interface, DHIS2 is designed to allow data entry on mobile devices. The DHIS2 Android Capture App is an integrated mobile solution for Android phones and tablets developed by the DHIS2 core team. DHIS2 also provides an Android SDK to facilitate the development of custom mobile apps for the DHIS2 platform, and DHIS2 can be configured for data entry via SMS.

Runs on PostgreSQL

DHIS2 runs on the open source PostgreSQL relation database management system.

Licensed as open-source software

DHIS2 is released as free and open software under the BSD 3-clause license. This means that it is not only available for download free of charge, but you have access to the source code and may modify and redistribute the software in any way you like.

Works offline

DHIS2 is a web application, however the data entry module can be operated without Internet connectivity. This means that if Internet goes down during a working session one can continue to enter data into the system. The data is stored locally in the browser and can easily be uploaded to the central server as soon as connectivity returns. This offline functionality is also included in the DHIS2 Android app for data entry on mobile devices.

Modular

DHIS2 has a modular architecture. From an implementation perspective this means that it’s possible to include the modules and the functionality which are required in your context and exclude what you don’t need. From a developer perspective this means that it’s easier to create functionality and plug it into the application without interfering with the existing source code.

Installable configurations based on global standards

DHIS2 has collaborated with WHO to create standardized data packages to strengthen data use for key health programs on a national and international level. The WHO configuration packages consist of DHIS2 metadata in .json format that provide standard configurations of DHIS2 according to WHO recommendations, aligned with a public health curriculum. These packages can be downloaded and installed in a modular fashion and modified to meet local needs.

Interoperable

DHIS2 is interoperable with other software applications in the domain like the iHRIS, the OpenMRS, and the WHO IMR, and typically plays an important role in assembling data from hospital, human resource and logistics systems into aggregate analysis and reports. DHIS2 also has a rich REST-based Web API which provides programmatic access to most parts of the system and can act as a platform for third-party Web portals and software clients.

Flexible

The DHIS2 meta data model is completely flexible. This implies that no development effort is needed to cater for special requirements for data entry or analysis. For instance, the system allows you to define any data element for which to capture data and features a flexible hierarchy of organizational units.

Internationalized

DHIS2 is internationalized both in terms of user interface and database metadata content. This means that the user is free to select which locale to display. DHIS2 is currently available in English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Hindi, Vietnamese, Chinese and Norwegian, and the interface and metadata can be translated into additional languages. We use Transifex as our localization platform, and DHIS2 community members can contribute to our translation projects there.