Case Management

Striae's case management system allows you to organize your comparison image annotation work into individual cases. Each case can contain multiple images, annotations, and notes, providing a structured workflow for your casework. You'll be able to export and import cases for smooth peer review and collaboration.

Table of Contents

Key Features

  • Individual Case Organization: Each case keeps its own images and data separate and secure.

  • Smart Case Sorting: Cases are sorted using alphanumeric order for easy browsing.

  • File Management: Upload, view, and delete images within each case.

  • Case Operations: Rename or delete your cases whenever needed.

  • Data Export: Export individual cases or all cases with comprehensive annotation data in multiple formats (JSON, CSV, Excel).

  • Case Import & Review: Import complete case packages (ZIP files) for secure peer review and collaboration with read-only protection.

Getting Started with Case Management

Accessing Case Management

  • Log in to Striae with your authenticated account.

  • Find the Case Management Panel on the left sidebar.

  • Use the Case Input Field to enter case numbers.

  • Click Load/Create to open an existing case or create a new one.

  • Use List All Cases to browse all your cases sorted by number and letter.

Understanding Case Numbers

  • Format: Use letters (A-Z), numbers (0-9), and hyphens (-) only.

  • Maximum length: 25 characters.

  • Examples:

    • 2025-001

    • CASE-123

    • HOMICIDE-2025-JAN-15

    • CYBER-FRAUD-001

Creating a New Case

  1. Type your desired case number in the input field.

  2. Click Load/Create Case.

    • If the case exists, it loads automatically.

    • If new, a fresh case is created.

  3. Confirmation appears: “Case [number] created successfully!”

Case Number Validation

  • ✅ Valid examples: 2025-001, CASE123, TEST-CASE-A1

  • ❌ Invalid examples: case@123 (special characters), overly long numbers

What Happens When You Create a Case

  • A case file structure is created in the system.

  • Your personal case list is updated.

  • File storage is set up for image uploads.

  • Annotation tools and notes are activated for the case.

Loading Existing Cases

Quick Load Methods

  • Direct Input: Enter the exact case number and click Load/Create.

  • Browse All Cases: Click List All Cases to open a modal showing your cases with pagination and smart sorting. Select a case to enter it quickly.

File Management

Supported File Types

  • PNG, JPEG/JPG, GIF, WEBP, SVG

Upload Process

  1. Select or load a case.

  2. Click Upload Image to pick files.

  3. Files get validated (max 10MB, supported format).

  4. Watch the upload progress percentage.

  5. Files are processed and appear in the file list.

Features and Restrictions

  • Max file size: 10 MB each.

  • Secure cloud storage.

  • Click a file to view, use the “×” button to delete with confirmation.

  • Error messages appear for invalid formats or size issues and disappear automatically.

Case Organization & Status Indicators

  • No case selected: “Create or select a case to view files”

  • Empty case: “No files found for [case-number]”

  • Active case: Displays case number and number of files

  • Loading: Shows “Loading...” during operations

Case Data Export

Overview

Striae allows you to export your case data for backup, statistical analysis, or auditing purposes. You can export individual cases or all your cases at once, with complete annotation data included.

Export Formats Available

  • JSON Format: Structured data format ideal for technical analysis and data processing

  • CSV Format: Spreadsheet-compatible format for individual cases with all annotation details

  • Excel Format: Multi-worksheet Excel files for bulk exports with summary and individual case sheets

Note: When you choose to include images with any export format, the system automatically packages everything in a ZIP file containing both the data files and all original images.

Accessing Export Functions

  1. Load any case or stay on the main case management screen

  2. Look for the Export button in the case management panel

  3. Click Export to open the export modal

Single Case Export

How to Export One Case

  1. Enter Case Number: Type the case number you want to export in the input field

  2. Choose Format: Select JSON or CSV/Excel format using the toggle buttons

  3. Include Images (Optional): Check the "Include Images" box to automatically package all original case images with the data in a ZIP file

  4. Click Export: Press the green "Export Case Data" button

  5. Download: Your browser will automatically download the export file (single format file or ZIP package with images)

What's Included in Single Case Exports

Complete Case Information:

  • Case number and export metadata

  • Export date and user information

  • Total file count and summary statistics

Detailed File Data:

  • File IDs and original filenames

  • Upload dates and file information

  • Complete annotation data for each file

Comprehensive Annotation Details (22 data fields):

  • Case identifiers (Left Case, Right Case, Left Item, Right Item)

  • Visual elements (Case Font Color, Index Type, Index Number, Index Color)

  • Classifications (Class Type, Custom Class, Class Note, Support Level)

  • Options (Has Subclass, Include Confirmation)

  • Box annotations with coordinates, colors, timestamps, and labels

  • Additional notes and last updated timestamps

File Naming Convention

  • JSON: striae-case-[CASE-NUMBER]-export-[DATE].json

  • CSV: striae-case-[CASE-NUMBER]-detailed-[DATE].csv

  • With Images: striae-case-[CASE-NUMBER]-complete-[DATE].zip (when "Include Images" is checked)

Bulk Export (All Cases)

How to Export All Cases

  1. Open Export Modal: Click the Export button from the case management panel

  2. Choose Format: Select JSON for structured data or CSV/Excel for spreadsheet format

  3. Click Export All: Press the blue "Export All Cases" button

  4. Monitor Progress: Watch the real-time progress bar showing which case is being processed

  5. Download: When complete, your export file will download automatically

What's Included in Bulk Exports

Summary Information:

  • Total number of cases and files

  • Export statistics and metadata

  • Cases with and without annotations

  • Overall annotation counts

Individual Case Details:

  • Complete data for each case (same as single case export)

  • Error handling for any failed case exports

  • Last modified dates and export status

Progress Tracking

  • Real-time Updates: See which case is currently being processed

  • Progress Bar: Visual indicator showing completion percentage

  • Case Counter: "Exporting case X of Y: [Case Name]" display

  • Error Handling: Failed cases are noted but don't stop the export process

File Formats for Bulk Export

JSON Format:

  • File: striae-all-cases-export-[DATE].json

  • Structure: Single JSON file with all case data organized hierarchically

Excel Format:

  • File: striae-all-cases-detailed-[DATE].xlsx

  • Structure: Multi-worksheet Excel file with:

    • Summary Sheet: Overview of all cases with export statistics

    • Individual Case Sheets: One worksheet per case with complete annotation details

    • Error Sheets: Separate worksheets for any failed case exports

Export Options and Features

Format Selection Guide

Choose JSON When:

  • You need structured data for technical analysis

  • Working with databases or programming tools

  • Require complete data hierarchy and relationships

  • Need the most compact file size

Choose CSV When:

  • Exporting a single case for spreadsheet analysis

  • Need human-readable tabular format

  • Working with data analysis tools like Excel, Google Sheets, or R

  • Want all 22 annotation fields in organized columns

Choose Excel (Bulk) When:

  • Exporting all cases for comprehensive analysis

  • Need organized worksheets for different cases

  • Want summary statistics and individual case details

  • Prefer Excel's built-in analysis and formatting tools

Choose to Include Images When:

  • Need complete case documentation including all original images

  • Sharing comprehensive evidence packages with auditors, colleagues, or legal teams

  • Archiving cases for long-term storage with full documentation

  • Requiring both structured data and visual evidence in a single package

  • Want the most complete and self-contained case export available

Data Completeness

All export formats include identical data:

  • Complete annotation information (all 22 fields)

  • Box annotation details with coordinates and visual properties

  • Case metadata and file information

  • Export tracking and error information

  • Timestamps and user attribution

Export Best Practices

Before Exporting

  • Verify Case Data: Ensure all annotations and notes are saved

  • Check File Names: Confirm case numbers are correct

  • Choose Appropriate Format: Select the format that best fits your analysis needs

  • Stable Connection: Ensure reliable internet connection for bulk exports

During Export

  • Monitor Progress: Watch the progress indicator for bulk exports

  • Avoid Interruption: Don't close the browser or navigate away during export

  • Large Case Sets: Be patient with bulk exports of many cases

After Export

  • Verify Downloads: Check that files downloaded correctly to your computer

  • Backup Files: Store export files in secure, backed-up locations

  • File Organization: Use clear folder structures for exported data

  • Data Security: Handle exported files according to your organization's data policies

Troubleshooting Export Issues

Common Export Problems

"No files found for case" Error:

  • Verify the case number is spelled correctly

  • Ensure the case exists and has been created

  • Check that you have permission to access the case

Export Progress Stuck:

  • Check your internet connection

  • Wait for the current case to complete processing

  • Refresh the page if the export appears frozen

Download Not Starting:

  • Check browser's download settings and permissions

  • Ensure popup blockers aren't preventing downloads

  • Try using a different browser if issues persist

Large File Export Slow:

  • Bulk exports with many cases take time to process

  • Consider exporting smaller batches if you have hundreds of cases

  • Use a stable, high-speed internet connection

Export with Images Taking Long:

  • Exports with images may take several minutes depending on image count and size

  • Monitor the progress indicator for download status and ZIP creation progress

  • Ensure stable internet connection for downloading all case images

  • Large cases with many high-resolution images will naturally take longer

Some Images Missing from Export:

  • Check the error log included in the ZIP file for details about failed image downloads

  • Network connectivity issues may prevent some images from downloading

  • Retry the export if many images failed to download

  • Contact support if specific images consistently fail to download

Export Recovery

  • Failed Single Case: Retry the export after checking the case number

  • Failed Bulk Export: The system will continue processing other cases even if some fail

  • Incomplete Downloads: Re-run the export to get a fresh file

  • Browser Issues: Clear browser cache or try an incognito/private window

Case Import and Review System

Overview

The Case Import and Review System allows you to securely import complete case packages (ZIP files) created by other examiners for peer review and collaboration. Imported cases are automatically protected with read-only access to ensure data integrity while enabling comprehensive review of all case materials.

Key Benefits:

  • Secure Collaboration: Review complete cases from colleagues without risk of accidental modification

  • Complete Case Access: All original images, annotations, and notes are preserved and accessible

  • Metadata Preservation: Original export information, analyst details, and timestamps are maintained

  • Easy Management: Simple import process with automatic organization and cleanup

Understanding Read-Only Cases

When you import a case for review:

  • Read-Only Protection: Imported cases cannot be modified, ensuring original data integrity

  • Complete Access: You can view all images, annotations, notes, and case data exactly as the original analyst created them

  • Separate Organization: Review cases are kept separate from your regular cases for clear organization

  • Original Metadata: All original case information including export date, original analyst, and case history is preserved

Important Security Features:

  • You cannot import cases that you originally created (system prevents conflicts)

  • Only one review case can be active at a time to maintain focus and organization

  • All import operations are tracked with timestamps and validation

How to Import a Case for Review

Step 1: Access the Import Feature

  • Open the Case Management Panel on the left sidebar

  • Look for the "Import Case" button

  • Click the button to open the import modal

Step 2: Select Your ZIP File

  • Choose "Select ZIP File" to browse your computer for the case package

  • The system accepts ZIP files exported from Striae with complete case data

  • The ZIP file must not be modified after export (except for renaming)

Step 3: Confirm Import

  • Click "Import" to begin the import process

  • Monitor the progress indicator as the system:

    • Clears the current loaded case (if any)

    • Extracts and validates case data

    • Uploads all images to secure storage

    • Imports annotations and notes

    • Sets up read-only access protections

Step 4: Access Your Review Case

  • Once import completes, the case automatically loads for review

  • All images, annotations, and notes are immediately accessible

  • Use normal navigation to review all case materials

Working with Imported Cases

Viewing Case Data:

  • Navigate through images using standard controls

  • View all annotations including box annotations, classifications, and notes using the toolbar

  • Generate a PDF report with selected annotations for wet signatures or offline review

Read-Only Interface:

  • All editing controls are automatically disabled for imported cases

  • You can view but cannot modify annotations, notes, or case information

  • Image uploads and file management are restricted

  • Case rename and delete operations are prevented

Navigation:

  • Use the Case Management Panel to see current review case status

  • The interface clearly indicates when you're viewing a read-only imported case

  • Return to your regular cases by loading a different case number

Managing Review Cases

Current Review Case:

  • Only one review case can be active at a time

  • The current review case is shown in the Case Management Panel

  • Case number is displayed with read-only indicator

Replacing a Review Case:

  • To import a new case when one is already loaded, use the "Clear" option

  • Or choose to automatically replace when importing a new case

  • The system safely removes the previous review case data

Removing Review Cases:

  • Click "Clear" to remove the imported case from your account

  • This action only removes the case from your review list; it doesn't affect the original case data

  • All associated imported data (images, annotations) is safely cleaned up from your account

Import Best Practices

Before Importing:

  • Verify the ZIP file is from a trusted source and contains the case you intend to review

  • Ensure you have sufficient time to complete the review process

  • Clear any current review case if you need to import a different one

During Import:

  • Keep the browser window open during the import process

  • Monitor progress indicators and respond to any prompts

  • Allow sufficient time for large cases with many high-resolution images

While Reviewing:

  • Take notes externally if you need to document your review findings

  • Use the complete case data to conduct thorough peer review

  • Remember that all viewing is read-only; no changes can be made to the original case

After Review:

  • Clear the review case when your analysis is complete

  • Communicate findings to the original analyst through your preferred communication channels

  • Consider exporting your own cases using the same process for reciprocal review

Troubleshooting Import Issues

Common Import Problems:

ZIP File Not Recognized:

  • Ensure the file is a valid ZIP archive exported from Striae

  • Check that the file hasn't been modified or corrupted during transfer

  • Verify the ZIP contains the required case data files

Import Fails with Error:

  • Check that you're not trying to import a case you originally created

  • Verify your internet connection is stable during the import process

Images Not Loading:

  • Large images may take time to process and upload

  • Check network connectivity if image upload appears stalled

  • Retry the import if the process was interrupted

Case Data Appears Incomplete:

  • Verify the original export included all necessary data

  • Check with the original analyst if case data seems missing

  • Re-import the case if the first attempt was incomplete or request a new export

Performance Issues:

  • Large cases with many high-resolution images may take longer to import

  • Close other browser tabs to free up memory during import

  • Consider importing during off-peak hours for better performance

Import Recovery:

  • Failed Import: Clear any partial import data and retry with a fresh ZIP file

  • Corrupted Data: Re-download the case package from the original source

  • Incomplete Cases: Contact the original analyst for a fresh export

  • Browser Issues: Clear browser cache or try an incognito/private window

Advanced Operations: Rename & Delete Cases

Renaming a Case

  • Click Rename/Delete Case

  • Enter a new case number

  • The system validates and transfers all files and notes to the new case automatically

  • Old case data is fully removed

Deleting a Case

  • Deletion is permanent and cannot be undone!

  • Confirm before final deletion

  • Removes case record, all files, notes, and system data completely

List All Cases

  • Use List All Cases to see and browse every case.

  • Cases are sorted intelligently: numbers first, then letters.

  • Pagination (10 per page) helps navigate large lists.

  • Click any case to enter it quickly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • “Invalid case number format”
    Use letters, numbers, and hyphens only; remove spaces and special characters.

  • “Case already exists” when renaming
    Choose a different name or load the existing case.

  • File loading failures
    Check internet connection, refresh, or contact support.

  • Upload failed
    Verify file size (<10MB), file type, connection; try again.

  • File size too large
    Compress or resize images; request limit increase if needed.

Error Recovery Features

  • Error messages auto-clear.

  • Uploads can be retried immediately.

  • Operations maintain data integrity.

Manual Recovery Steps

  • Refresh the page.

  • Log out and back in.

  • Clear browser cache.

  • Contact support for persistent issues.

Best Practices for File & Case Management

  • Name files clearly and descriptively.

  • Upload files in annotation order.

  • Clean up unused or duplicate files regularly.

  • Keep your own file backups outside Striae.

  • Log out after finishing for privacy.

  • Manage large cases by splitting or compressing files.

  • Upload large files during off-peak times for better speed.

  • Use modern browsers and maintain strong internet connections.

Quick Reference Commands

Action

How To

Create/Load Case

Enter case number → Click Load/Create Case

Browse Cases

Click List All Cases

Upload File

Load case → Click Upload Image → Choose file

Delete File

Click "×" next to filename → Confirm

Export Single Case

Enter case number → Choose format → Click Export Case Data

Export with Images

Enter case number → Choose format → Check "Include Images" → Click Export Case Data

Export All Cases

Choose format → Click Export All Cases → Monitor progress

Rename Case

Expand case actions → Enter new name → Click Rename

Delete Case

Expand case actions → Click Delete Case → Confirm

File & Case Number Requirements

  • File types: PNG, JPEG, GIF, WEBP, SVG

  • Max file size: 10 MB

  • Case numbers: A-Z, 0-9, hyphens only; max 25 characters; no spaces or special characters

Need additional help? Don't hesitate to reach out to our support team. We're here to ensure you have secure and seamless access to Striae's features.

Updated on
Accessing Striae Registration and Login
Striae Image Annotation & PDF Generation Guide