FormSpace: How We Store Your Data — localStorage and Server

FormSpace uses a hybrid approach to store your landscape design project data, combining your browser's local storage (localStorage) and secure servers. This approach ensures both high operating speed and offline access to drafts, as well as reliable saving of finished projects, accessibility from any device, and the possibility of collaborative work. Understanding this system will help you effectively manage your projects and be confident in the safety of your ideas.

What is localStorage and why is it needed?

LocalStorage is a built-in mechanism in your web browser that allows websites to store small amounts of data directly on your device. Unlike temporary files (cache), data in localStorage remains even after closing the browser or restarting the computer, until you manually delete it or the website does so itself. Its main advantage is instant access to data, which makes the application very fast and allows you to continue where you left off, even without an internet connection. Typically, the data volume for localStorage is limited to 5-10 MB per domain, which is sufficient for drafts and the current state of a project.

What is server-side data storage?

Server-side storage means that your data is saved on remote computers (servers), accessed via the internet. This is a centralized and scalable solution that provides high reliability, backup, and data availability from anywhere in the world, on any device. Your projects are stored securely, protected by modern encryption protocols and access control systems. Server-side storage is ideal for long-term, large projects, as well as for functions requiring collaboration or processing large volumes of information, such as AI concept generation.

How FormSpace Uses localStorage?

In FormSpace, localStorage acts as a “quick draft” and temporary storage. It saves the current changes to your project while you are actively working on it but haven't yet clicked the "Save to server" button. This helps prevent data loss from accidental tab closure or a brief internet outage. For example, if you are drawing zones for a 10-are plot or placing objects, and your laptop suddenly runs out of battery, the next time you open FormSpace, you will likely see your project in the same state it was before the interruption. This is especially convenient for owners of plots ranging from 6 to 20 ares, who can work on a project in several sessions without worrying about every minor save.

How FormSpace Uses Server-Side Storage?

Server-side storage in FormSpace is intended for your registered projects and all associated data. This includes final layout versions, saved zones, selected objects, results of AI concept generation (module 2.1), and design by photo (module 3.1). When you save a project to the server, it becomes accessible from your account on any device — from your home PC, work laptop, or even a tablet. This is critical for ensuring the integrity and security of your data, as well as for the ability to share the project or receive feedback. Your projects are reliably backed up and protected from local device failures.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Approach for the User

LocalStorage:

• Advantages: High operating speed, instant access, ability to work offline with the current draft.
• Disadvantages: Limited data volume, tied to a specific browser and device (cannot be opened on another PC), risk of data loss if browser cache/history is cleared, no backup. A typical mistake is relying solely on localStorage for important projects, which can lead to losing several hours of work if the browser is reset. Server-side storage:
• Advantages: Accessibility from any device, reliable backup, data security, possibility of collaborative work, storage of large volumes of data (e.g., several layout options for a plot 30 m wide and 50 m long).
• Disadvantages: Requires an internet connection for access and saving, potentially slightly longer save time (depends on internet speed).

When are data saved to the server?

In FormSpace, data is saved to the server every time you explicitly click the "Save Project" or "Save Changes" button in the interface. Additionally, some actions, such as completing work with the AI concepts module (2.1) or uploading photos for design (3.1), may automatically initiate server-side saving to ensure your work results are available and linked to your account. It is recommended to save projects to the server regularly, especially after making significant changes or completing an important stage of work, for example, after placing all key zones or objects.

Data Management: What Can Users Do?

As a FormSpace user, you have full control over your saved projects. You can view, edit, and delete them through your personal account. An export function is also available, allowing you to save a copy of your projects to your device, for example, in image or PDF format, for future use or printing. For more detailed planning and plot management, we recommend reading the article “Plot Planning from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide”. This will help you structure your data and use it effectively.

How to Plan in FormSpace, Considering Data Storage

Using FormSpace for landscape planning becomes most effective when you understand how the system works with data. Start your project, for example, with the "Plot Plan" module (1.0), where you will draw the contours of your plot and mark out the main zones. At this stage, your changes will be actively saved in localStorage, ensuring fast and seamless operation. You can experiment with different placements for a gazebo, paths, or a pond without worrying about every click. Once you achieve a significant result or want to move on to more serious stages, such as generating concepts with AI (module 2.1) or working with design by photo (module 3.1), be sure to save your current project to the server using the corresponding button. This ensures that all your work is linked to your account, accessible from any device, and protected from accidental loss. You can return to the project later, share it with family or specialists, and use it as a basis for further development, for example, when choosing specific plants for the garden, which you can read about in our article “Choosing Plants for Your Garden: Landscape Designer Tips”.

FAQ

Can I work in FormSpace without internet?

Yes, you can continue working on your current project in FormSpace even if your internet connection is temporarily interrupted. All changes you make will be saved in your browser's localStorage. However, to save the project to the server, access previously saved projects, or use functions requiring cloud computing (e.g., AI concepts), an internet connection is necessary.

What happens if I clear my browser cache?

Clearing your browser's cache and site data will delete all data stored in localStorage, including unfinished FormSpace projects that have not been saved to the server. Therefore, before performing such an operation, it is crucial to ensure that all your important projects are saved in the cloud. All projects saved on the server will remain untouched and will be accessible after logging back into your account.

How secure is my data on the FormSpace server?

FormSpace pays great attention to the security of user data. All projects are stored on secure servers using modern encryption methods and security protocols. Only you have access to your data through your account. We do not transfer your personal data to third parties and take all necessary measures to protect information from unauthorized access.

Can I access my project from another computer?

Yes, if your project has been saved to the FormSpace server, you can access it from any computer or device connected to the internet. To do this, simply log into your FormSpace account using your credentials. Your projects will be synchronized and available in your personal account, allowing you to continue working anywhere.

Is there a limit on the number of projects or file size?

For projects saved on the FormSpace server, there are reasonable limits that generally do not affect most users planning plots in the range of 6-20+ ares. The number of projects is usually limited by the tariff plan, and file sizes are optimized for efficient storage. For precise information on current limits, it is best to consult the terms of your tariff plan.

Can I recover a project if I accidentally deleted it?

After deleting a project from the FormSpace server, it is usually moved to a "trash bin" or temporarily saved before being permanently deleted. This provides a short window for recovery. However, it is always important to be careful when deleting data, as recovery may not be possible after permanent deletion. It is recommended to use the export function to create local copies of important projects.

How often does FormSpace back up my data?

FormSpace's server-side storage system includes regular automatic backups of all user data. This is standard practice to ensure high reliability and protection against potential failures. The exact frequency and backup strategy are part of our internal security policy and are aimed at minimizing the risks of data loss for our users.

Understanding how FormSpace manages data allows you to make the most effective use of all the platform's features. The combination of localStorage and server-side storage provides the flexibility, speed, and reliability needed to create the ideal landscape design for your plot. Always remember the importance of saving your projects to the server so that your ideas are available anytime, anywhere.