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Survey data is not just the respondent's answers (the "data") but just as importantly is also the question text, response options and survey structure ( the "metadata").

Data formats such as SPSS (.sav) are nice as they include both.  Protobi can read the variable labels and value formats from SPSS files and even recover the survey structure reasonably well using the Autogroup feature.

Additionally, survey engines like Confirmit can export survey metadata as either Excel or XML.  This is useful as it they contain even more information about survey content and organization that can be used to create a better view right away.  When you get survey data ask your survey programmer if they can produce a machine-readable layout file.

Protobi can even pull the data layout directly by connecting to Confirmit's API. To read data from Confirmit we only need the API key for the account with permissions to the relevant surveys.

## **Import Excel layout file**

Confirmit can export a layout file in Excel format that looks like this:

In Protobi,  go to the Data tab under Project Settings and upload this file to a new document named "**confirmit.xlsx**"

When uploaded, press the button "Apply".  This will trigger Protobi to parse the layout file and upload the element specs to the project.

**XML layout file**

The survey programmer may be able to provide an XML file from Confirmit. This is ideal as it contains the entire survey – questions, structure, logic and all.  In Protobi,  go to the Data tab under Project Settings and upload this file to a new document named "**confirmit.xml**":

When uploaded, press the button "Apply".  This will trigger Protobi to parse the layout file and upload the element specs to the project.

**Caution: applying layout files will completely reset the project.**  If there are changes you've made that you'd like to retain, contact [support@protobi.com](mailto:support@protobi.com).

## **Import data layout from Confirmit's API**

Protobi can connect directly to Confirmit's API, using the API key for the account with permissions to the relevant survey. A survey engine connection set up allows us to refresh data and pull the data layout (reset elements) with a click of a button. This setting is under the advanced tab in [project settings](/admin-access/project-settings).

**Caution: reseting elements will completely reset the project.** If you want to bring in the data layout for new questions (i.e. for tracking studies) and retain manual edits you made to the project, contact [support@protobi.com](mailto:support@protobi.com). Also see [Protect elements from deletion](/admin-access/project-elements).

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