formshecho

Formshecho is a fictional software framework and methodology described here as an illustrative example for capturing, validating, and presenting structured information via form-driven interfaces. It emphasizes connecting data to verifiable facts and maintaining provenance through each step of a data lifecycle. The name fuses form and hecho (Spanish for fact), signaling its aim to make data collection and verification coextensive.

Origin and development: Formshecho emerged from collaborative efforts among developers and researchers in open data and journalism communities. It grew out of needs for auditable, repeatable data entry in environments where accuracy and traceability matter, such as fact-checking, public records processing, and compliance workflows. The project is maintained as an open-source software suite and reference implementation.

Architecture and features: The platform centers on declarative forms, where fields and validators are defined in a machine-readable specification. It supports data provenance by recording versioned form definitions and user actions. Validators enforce constraints and cross-field consistency, while templating enables consistent output in reports and dashboards. It also offers plug-ins for data import/export, accessibility, and integration with content management systems.

Applications and impact: In journalism, formshecho can structure source statements, evidence links, and check results. In governance and NGOs, it supports transparent public data collection, audit trails, and reproducible reporting. Educational uses include standardized data collection and peer review workflows.

Limitations and reception: Critics point to a learning curve and the need for well-defined data models; complex forms may become unwieldy. Proponents argue that formalized data capture improves reliability and accountability.

See also: Structured data, data provenance, fact-checking tools.