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Questions and answers

Common questions about FieldWorks Lite. Questions about syncing are answered on How sync works.

What is Lexbox?​

Lexbox is the online service that stores your team's projects and keeps everyone's copies in step. FieldWorks Lite signs in to it and syncs with it for you, so you don't need to open the Lexbox website to do your dictionary work — that all happens in the app. The website is there if you want it (for example, to manage who is on a project), but everyday work lives entirely in FieldWorks Lite.

Do I need a Lexbox account?​

Not to try the app. You can install FieldWorks Lite and choose Create Example Project to practice on a small dictionary that stays on your device. You do need a Lexbox account to open a real project, because that is where your team's projects live.

Does FieldWorks Lite replace FieldWorks Classic?​

No. It is a companion to FieldWorks Classic. Think of it as an easier way to do everyday dictionary work, especially away from your desk. FieldWorks Classic is still the place for everything else in your project — it has its own help and documentation.

What can I work on in FieldWorks Lite?​

The dictionary: entries, senses, definitions, examples and the pictures and sound files that go with them. Other parts of a FieldWorks Classic project are not shown.

Can I use it on my phone?​

Yes, on Android. There are versions for Android phones and tablets and for Windows and Linux computers. It is the same app on every device.

Is my work safe if my phone or computer breaks?​

Anything that has reached Lexbox is safe. Lexbox keeps your project on the server, so you can install FieldWorks Lite on a new device, sign in and download the project again. Changes that are still only on a broken device cannot be recovered, so it is worth getting online now and then.

How do I report a problem or ask for help?​

In the app, open Feedback & Support from the sidebar. From there you can ask a question on the community forum, suggest an improvement, report a technical problem, or email lexbox_support@groups.sil.org. Telling us what device you were using and what you were doing at the time helps a lot.

Is FieldWorks Lite finished?​

Not yet. It is still being developed, and new things arrive regularly. Your data is backed up on Lexbox, but if you hit a problem with a project, please say that you are using FieldWorks Lite when you contact support.