Features
Web enabled
DHIS 2 is a web application based on standard Java technology. This means that the application runs on any web server which supports Java Servlets and can be accessed via a web browser over the internet. This means DHIS 2 can be deployed on a national online server as well as in an intranet offline setting.
Platform independent
DHIS 2 is written in Java. Java applications runs on any platform for which there exist a Java Runtime Environment, in practice all popular platforms including Windows, Linux, Mac OS X and Solaris.
Runs on all major web browsers
DHIS 2 is written according to the W3C standard for HTML and CSS and runs on any standard compliant web browser like Firefox, Chrome, Opera, Safari 4 and Internet Explorer 8+. The DHIS 2 team recommends Chrome as it provides excellent performance and runs on Windows, Linux and Mac OS X.
Runs on most relational databases
DHIS 2 currently runs on PostgreSQL, MySQL and H2. DHIS 2 is built with Hibernate and only minor development efforts are needed to make it run on any major relational database.
Licensed as open source software
DHIS 2 is released as free and open software under the BSD license. This means that it is not only available for download free of charge, but you have access to the source code and may modify and redistribute the software in any way you like.
Works off-line
DHIS 2 is a web application - however the data entry module can be operated without Internet connectivity. This means that if Internet goes down during a working session one can continue to enter data into the system. The data is stored locally in the browser and can easily be uploaded to the central server as soon as connectivity returns.
Modular
DHIS 2 has a modular architecture. From an implementers perspective this means that it's possible to include the modules and the functionality which are required in your context and exclude what you don't need. From a developers perspective this means that it's easier to create functionality and plug it into the application without interfering with the existing source code.
Interoperable
DHIS 2 supports the official format for health data exchange developed by WHO called SDMX-HD. This makes the system interoperable with other software applications in the domain, like the iHRIS, the OpenMRS, and the WHO IMR, and typically plays an important role in assembling data from hospital, human resource and logistics systems into aggregate analysis and reports. DHIS 2 also has a rich Web API which can act as a platform for third-party Web portals and software clients.
Flexible
The DHIS 2 meta data model is completely flexible. This implies that no development effort is needed to cater for special requirements for data entry or analysis. For instance, the system allows you to define any data element for which to capture data and features a flexible hierarchy of organizational units.
Internationalized
DHIS 2 is internationalized both in terms of user interface and database meta-data content. This means that the user is free to select which locale to display. DHIS 2 is currently available in English, French, Spanish, Hindi, Vietnamese and Norwegian.