FAQ

Can I change the order of columns in the spreadsheet?

Yes. It doesn't matter which order the columns are in, but the column headings should not be edited.

Can I add extra columns to my spreadsheet?

Yes, you can add extra columns to your spreadsheet for your own purposes, but only the information in official FirstVoices columns and in the proper format will be uploaded.

What happens if my batch upload sheet includes errors?

It is important that the content of your batch is checked carefully. Any errors in the information, for example mismatched definitions, will not be caught and will have to be edited individually on the website by you or your team. Formatting errors, for example references to audio files that weren't supplied or typos in audio filenames, will result in those entries not being uploaded with the batch. The rest of the sheet will be processed and FirstVoices team will provide you with a list of entries that need correction. Once these are corrected, they can be processed as well.

Can I use formulas in my spreadsheet?

Yes. To use formulas you will need to save your file as .ods or .xlsx when you are working in it, but make sure that you export a copy of your file in CSV UTF-8 format when it is time for you to submit your file to FirstVoices. It is best to export your file then have a quick look over it to make sure that the information appears as expected. For help with saving or exporting to CSV UTF-8 format take a look at this article: Save spreadsheets in UTF-8 CSV format

Can I use open-source or royalty free media in my language site?

Yes, you use open-source and royalty free media in your language sites. To find images to use that you haven’t created yourself, it is recommended that you use Wikimedia Commons. Wikimedia Commons is an online repository of free-use images, and can be found by clicking here.

That said, the FirstVoices team highly recommends that you use community-sourced images. Whether they be photographs, drawings or other community-created images, this is a great way for community members to get involved with your FirstVoices language site.

Please note that if you are uploading any content that isn’t your own, copyright law requires you to properly credit whoever owns the content, even if the content is open source or royalty-free. This applies to any image, video, audio recording or other material. More information on how to credit the source of open source or royalty-free content can be found here.