Virtual Column Sync time

[maxmaxmax222]

Hi all,

Currently, I have 18 devices using appsheet (Note that all formula are run by appsheet). The problem is that when device no.1 had update data, the data is updated rightaway but device no.2 had to wait for so long for the data to update (without clicking refresh). 

Is there a way to make it faster? or Are there another way to solve this?

Thank you

[WillowMobileSys]

Each device has its OWN copy of the app locally running on the device.  When an update is made in the app, the changes are written to the datasource on that device and virtual columns are recalculated.  The data changes and updated Virtual Columns will be seen instantaneously on that device. 

Then the updates are sent to the AppSheet servers.  On a Sync request by another user, they will be sent the data changes AND Virtual Columns are recalculated as part of that Sync request.  That Sync can be:

• A user-initiated sync
• An automatic background sync (runs every 30 minutes without user activity)
• a Sync that runs automatically after some user activity - edit or add (does depend on app settings).

There is some expected elapsed time before other users can see the impact of changes.  When you say "device no.2 had to wait for so long", this statement is very subjective and there a number of factors that can contribute to the perceived slowness. 

• How long is the wait time?
• What are the app Sync settings?
• You mentioned "(without clicking refresh)" , is that user on device no. 2 actively using the app while waiting for the changes or simply waiting for the updates to appear?
• How long does it take for the edits to be submitted to the server?  You can estimate this by watching the "edit counter" on the Sync button. When it disappears, you can assume all edits were sent to the server.
• Do all users have good internet connection?

[maxmaxmax222]

• How long is the wait time?

     -As you said I believe more than 30 mins

• What are the app Sync settings?

• You mentioned "(without clicking refresh)" , is that user on device no. 2 actively using the app while waiting for the changes or simply waiting for the updates to appear?

    - It likes a production process, department 1 have to update their work first whether finish or not. If department 1 status is finish, department2 will pick up work from department1. In my case when department 1 update data on appsheet, the status show immediately on device 1 but department 2 (device2) is not update so they will not know the actual status of department1.

• How long does it take for the edits to be submitted to the server?  You can estimate this by watching the "edit counter" on the Sync button. When it disappears, you can assume all edits were sent to the server

   - Less than minutes 

[WillowMobileSys]

Your answers are not very convincing/specific.  I will assume that the department 2 person is actively using the app while waiting for the department 1 updates.  Based on your response it seems to take more than 30 minutes for the department 1 changes to show on the department 2 persons device.

Next step is to look at the Sync times.  There is a Performance Analyzer which you can find while in the Editor at Manage -> Monitor -> Performance Profile.  Tap the "Launch Performance Analyzer" button.  

How much time is each Sync taking?

If the Sync times are in the minutes range then it's time to focus on reducing that time.

In the Performance screen if you tap the binocular button under the Performance column, it will expand and you can drill in to see where the Sync time is being spent.