How to Easily Convert Your PDFs Into Fillable Online Forms

Converting your PDFs into powerful, dynamic fillable online forms is incredibly easy, requiring no code or IT support to complete. Check out this quick guide to converting your PDFs into online forms (and sign up for a free trial of GoFormz) to get started: 

Why convert your PDFs into online forms? 

Sure, PDFs can be used to enter information into a document, but they simply cannot host the dynamic features and logic that empower teams to improve the way they work and collect better data. PDFs also cannot host new data types (like images, GPS and maps, or sketches) and must be emailed or printed to be delivered. 

For example, a sales rep might be able to enter information into a quote PDF, however, there are no features to safeguard against incorrect math, forgotten form fields, and other opportunities for human error. With online forms, that same sales rep can enter quote data into form fields that instant complete calculations for them, and if any critical fields are forgotten, the online form can require that they enter the information before the form can be submitted. 

With fillable online forms, data can be rapidly entered into forms that look just like their original paper documents or PDFs. These forms can be easily equipped with instant calculations, Required fields, Image fields, GPS and Maps, and more – resulting in more accurate, comprehensive data capture. Users can also leverage Database fields, like Drop Down menus, to make selections and instantly populate corresponding fields with highly accurate information. Rather than needing to hand-in or email forms, fillable online forms are instantly available for review and processing and can be automatically uploaded to the Cloud, connected applications (like Salesforce, Procore, Quickbooks, Google Drive, and more) or instantly emailed to customers and colleagues. 

Finally, fillable online form data can be rapidly reported on, improving analytics and analysis, and allowing your team to quickly pinpoint opportunities and obstacles.

How to convert your PDFs into online forms: 

Converting your PDFs into powerful online forms is easy. To get started, sign up for a free trial of GoFormz, log in to your account from a computer, and follow these simple steps: 

1. Click ‘Upload a form’, select your PDF file, and give it a name.

2. Your PDF will load in the Template Editor. This is where you can drag-and-drop digital fields onto your Template, add logic, and customize properties. To get started, drag a field from the Template Fields section onto your uploaded form Template. Once a field has been placed, you can adjust its size and location using your cursor. 

3. Next, navigate to the Properties panel. Here you can make fields Required, different colors and fonts, add Drop Down items, add logic, and more.

4. Once you have added and customized your form fields, click ‘Save Changes’. 

Presto! You can now fill out your form online or from phones and tablets, using the GoFormz mobile app. 

Share links to your online forms for anyone to fill out and complete: 

You can also share links to your online forms with individuals outside of your GoFormz account, for them to fill out and complete. Using the Public Forms feature, a link to your fillable online form can be posted to your website, sent via email, shared via text, and more. Your Public Forms can be customized, allowing your team to determine what fields should be editable, add expiration dates, and more. Once completed, Public Forms can be instantly reviewed and processed, accelerating business workflows and allowing your team to efficiently collaborate with external contributors and organizations.  

To learn more about digitizing your forms and data capture, check out our Quickstart Guide and Customer Stories.