Site Export
Export the complete contents of a site to a zip file for backup, archival, or offline access. Site exports include all documents, folders, and site structure. Access export functionality through Site Settings > Export.
Requesting a Site Export
To export a site:
- Navigate to Site Settings > Export for the site you want to export
- Click Request Export
- Wait for the export to be processed
- Receive notification when the export is ready (if notifications are enabled)
- Download the exported zip file from the site
Export Request: Clicking "Request Export" initiates the export process. The export is processed asynchronously, so you can continue working while it's being created.
Export Process
Processing Time
Exports are processed in the background:
- Small Sites: Typically complete within minutes
- Large Sites: May take longer depending on content volume
- Status Indicator: The export status is displayed on the Export settings page
Export Status
After requesting an export, you'll see:
Processing: Export is being created Complete: Export is ready for download Available: Export file is saved to your site
Notifications
If email notifications are enabled:
- You'll receive an email when the export is ready
- The notification includes information about the export
- Check your notification settings to ensure export notifications are enabled
What's Included in Exports
Site exports include comprehensive site contents:
Documents and Files
All Files: Every document and file uploaded to the site is included in the export.
Folder Structure
Complete Hierarchy: The export preserves the exact folder structure and organization of your site.
Site Contents
The zip file contains:
- All documents in their original formats
- All folders maintaining their hierarchy
- File metadata and organization
- Complete site structure
Note: Exports include the site contents but not:
- User access permissions
- Site settings and configuration
- Site statistics or analytics
- Watermarks (original files without watermarks)
Downloading Exports
Once an export is complete:
- Navigate to Site Settings > Export
- The export file appears as a zip file in your site
- Download the zip file like any other file in the site
- Extract the zip file on your local machine
File Location: The exported zip file is saved directly to your site, making it easy to access and download.
Use Cases
Backup and Archival
Regular Backups: Export sites periodically to create backups of important content.
Project Completion: Export sites when projects are completed for archival purposes.
Compliance: Maintain exports for compliance and record-keeping requirements.
Offline Access
Local Copies: Download exports to access content offline or on local networks.
Portable Archives: Share exported zip files with team members who need offline access.
Migration and Transfer
Content Migration: Use exports to transfer content between accounts or systems.
Data Portability: Maintain portable copies of your data for flexibility.
Collaboration
External Sharing: Share exported zip files with external collaborators who don't have Clear Ideas access.
Documentation: Create exports for documentation or reporting purposes.
Best Practices
Regular Exports
Schedule Exports: Export important sites regularly to maintain current backups.
Before Major Changes: Export sites before making significant structural changes.
Project Milestones: Export sites at project milestones for historical records.
Export Management
Organize Exports: Keep track of export dates and purposes.
Storage: Store exported zip files in secure, accessible locations.
Version Control: Consider dating or versioning exports for better organization.
File Size Considerations
Large Sites: Be aware that exports of large sites may result in large zip files.
Download Time: Large exports may take time to download depending on your connection.
Storage Space: Ensure you have sufficient storage space for exported files.
Limitations
Export Frequency
- Exports are processed on-demand
- Multiple exports can be requested, but each processes separately
- There may be limits on concurrent exports
File Size
- Very large sites may produce very large zip files
- Consider the download and storage implications
- Large exports may take longer to process
Content Scope
- Exports include site contents only
- Site settings, user permissions, and configurations are not included
- Watermarks are not applied to exported files
Related Settings
- Archives - Learn about site archives
- Site Settings - General site configuration
- Notifications - Configure export notifications