FAQ: What is a Template?

A Template is how you define the layout and functionality of your form

GoFormz offers a powerful, no-code-required form builder – allowing form creators the ability to create mobile forms that look exactly like their existing paper forms or create forms from scratch! Using our powerful form builder, you can create your very own form Template. But what is a Template and what is the difference between a Template and a Form?

Templates vs Forms
Think of a Template as a master version of your digitized document, and every copy you generate to fill out is called a form. Think of a Form as an individual instance of that Template that you have a user fill out and complete. 

For example, when it comes to paper forms, you will typically have a file stored on your computer that you leverage as your master copy. That’s what we identify as your Template – eliminating the need to reprint, copy, duplicate, and more.

With GoFormz, you get started creating a form Template by uploading a PDF or JPG of an existing document to the Template Editor. In the Template Editor, you can drag-and-drop digital fields onto your uploaded form, adjust their sizes and location, and easily define their properties. 

Making changes to Templates
Having the ability to update Templates while protecting data collected within previous versions is crucial. Fortunately, Template Versioning allows users to Publish updates to their form Templates without disrupting their data collection. Every time a Template is Published, a new version becomes available for future forms to be created based on and do not impact forms created from the original version of the Template. 

This functionality is significantly useful as it allows form creators the ability to optimize their Templates as needed, without risking the loss of data saved within forms generated from earlier versions. For example, without Template Versioning, if a form creator were to delete several form fields within a Template, then they run the risk of losing previously captured data – placing an operation at risk for losing critical data. 

Example
Suppose you are a field operator who needs to fill out and complete a request form based on a job you are working on. You would go into your GoFormz account, locate the request form template, and generate a new form based on that Template. Then you would fill out and complete the form from either your phone, tablet, or desktop. The next time you or another field operator needs to generate a new request, you would repeat those same steps – simplifying operational procedures and streamlining the collection of crucial information. 

Ready to get started with GoFormz? Either sign up for a free trial today or check out our top 5 digital form templates for your business to help turbocharge your operation.