formsqui

Formsqui is a framework in information technology that blends form-based data entry with semantic queryability. It consists of a form definition language, a runtime that renders interfaces, and a semantic layer that links responses to a shared data model. The term emerged in academic and developer communities in the 2010s to address interoperability between disparate data collection tools and repositories. The form schema describes fields, data types, constraints, validation rules, and localization. The semantic layer maps field values to an ontology or common vocabulary, enabling consistent querying, aggregation, and cross-dataset analysis. Data are stored in structured formats such as JSON or XML, with optional RDF/JSON-LD compatibility for Linked Data applications. Features commonly associated with formsqui include offline data capture, input validation, accessibility considerations, and multi-language support. Some implementations also provide form versioning and governance to track changes over time.

Typical use cases include surveys, field data collection in research projects, and administrative forms requiring reproducible data pipelines. Variants exist: a lightweight Formsqui Lite for small teams and an enterprise edition with additional governance and integration tools. Limitations cited by critics include learning curve, potential over-engineering for simple tasks, and performance concerns on very large forms.

See also: form, questionnaire, data modeling, semantic web, JSON-LD, RDF, user interface.