[Video] FAQ: How do I build a Form Template?
Originally published on 03/12/2018
Ready to build your first digital form Template?
Congratulations on taking the first significant step towards creating your digital form Template by partnering with GoFormz to digitally transform your paper forms. To get started, follow these simple steps:
Begin by uploading your desired form to the GoFormz Template Builder.
Use the menu of available fields to drag-and-drop form fields onto your newly digitized form Template.
As you add each form field to your Template, be sure to give them descriptive names in the Properties Panel. This step is crucial for identifying any missing fields when users attempt to complete their forms, preventing oversights.
Customize each form field within the Properties Panel located on the right-hand side. Adjust settings to match your specific requirements, such as making fields required, changing colors, incorporating calculations, adjusting formatting, and more.
Once you've completed your Form View, click on the List View module at the top of the screen and select ‘Auto Build’. This action will generate a mobile-friendly version of your form, making the form-filling process more straightforward for users on mobile devices. By utilizing the Auto-Build function, you can efficiently create this version of your form, streamlining your form-building process.
Important Beginner’s Tips for Template Building
As you embark on the journey of mobile form creation, understanding some key aspects of the GoFormz platform will significantly save you time. Here are some valuable tips to help you get started:
Three Signature Field Options
GoFormz provides three distinct types of signature fields that you can utilize in your templates: Digital Signatures, eSign Signatures, and eSign Initials. Before incorporating any of these signature fields, it's important to determine the specific type of signature that your form Template needs. If you require a legally binding signature, we strongly recommend using the eSignature form fields. (Please keep in mind that capturing a legally compliant electronic signature may entail additional steps to comply with state, county, and international laws. Always ensure that your use of eSignatures aligns with the local legal requirements.) On the other hand, if a legally binding signature is not required, feel free to utilize the Digital Signature field.
The Properties Panel
Consider the Properties Panel as your tool for tailoring each form field you place on your form Template. When you click on a form field, the Properties Panel will appear on the right-hand side of your screen, and it will be unique for each field. Within this panel, you'll have the capability to include calculations through the ‘Default Value’ or ‘Formatting’ section, designate fields as required, specify character limits, modify the size of each form field, adjust their background color, and much more.
Save and Test
Prior to finalizing your Template build, it’s essential to save and test your recently digitized document. This testing phase ensures that your data collection is accurate right from the start. To carry out this process, navigate to the top right corner of the screen, choose 'Save Draft,' and then click 'Preview.' This will enable you to conduct a test of your form Template. If everything appears correctly, exit the preview mode and select 'Publish.' By doing so, your form Template will become accessible within the 'Forms Tab' of the GoFormz platform and can now be completed as you see fit.
Looking for more help on uploading your first Form to GoFormz? Click here to watch our ‘Uploading Forms’ tutorial.
