---
title: 3.1.10 Save and reopen an analysis file
description: "The Isovist_App uses a bespoke file format (.isovist) to save setup scan files. To save a file: - Select ‘Import/Export’ from the primary menu at the top left of the screen, and then ‘Save scan file’. A file dialogue box…"
url: "https://isovists.org/user-guide/3-1-10-save-and-reopen-an-analysis-file/"
updated: "2024-02-15"
category: "3 How To... / 3.1 Perform Basic Functions:"
---

# 3.1.10 Save and reopen an analysis file

The Isovist_App uses a bespoke file format (.isovist) to save setup scan files. To save a file:

- Select ‘Import/Export’ from the primary menu at the top left of the screen, and then ‘Save scan file’. A file dialogue box should subsequently open to allow a location to be chosen and the file named.
- Wait… The file save can take time due to the volume of information involved. Once saving has commenced, normal scan analysis will resume; saving occurring in parallel as a background function. Whilst saving continues, the ‘exit’ button in the user menu will be greyed out.

To reopen an isovist analysis file:

- Select ‘Import/Export’ from the primary menu at the top left of the screen, and then ‘Open Scan or Plan file’. A file dialogue box should subsequently open to allow the import file to be chosen.
- After choosing the file, the screen should switch to a blinking icon whilst the file loads and the drawing  settings and data are reconstructed; this will take longer for larger files.
- When complete, the normal drawing view should become visible.