Web forms: what is it, what are they for and how to create them

Web forms, also known as HTML forms, are online pages that allow input from multiple users. They are interactive resources in the same format as a paper form, where people can fill in particular fields.

They are mainly used to retrieve data and information from a certain group of people . This type of information is processed and stored to carry out other types of work.

There are two basic parts to a form:

• The program or script that helps process information retrieved from users.
• The interface or page that has the form structure (fields, labels, buttons, etc.)

By meeting these two basic elements, forms are ready to collect the information your users enter.

Importance of forms

For starters, forms help manage and collect information efficiently and easily. Likewise, they help to have the information stored and ordered to carry out the corresponding analyses. These types of forms are essential to obtain the necessary information from potential customers .

Knowing customers through their responses makes it much easier to take retention measures and strategies. This is done in order to increase sales and establish a much stronger relationship with customers.

Benefits of the forms

If you still have doubts regarding the use of web forms, here are some reasons why these elements can be beneficial for your company or brand. Learn about the advantages below.

Information in real time

Thanks to the program or script that processes user information, it can be stored and viewed in real time. Therefore, it is ideal for companies that want to make reports or information flows as quickly as possible. In this way, you avoid moving and treating physical documents that result in a time-consuming and unproductive process.

I save money and time

In addition to the previous point, using web forms translates into a much simpler and more productive process. Plus, we're leaving behind the era of printing, distributing, and storing hundreds of forms. With an automated program, it is possible to collect all the data you want and have it at your fingertips at any time. Without a doubt, there is a visible saving of time and money in the use of web forms.

Improve the flow of information

It is natural that, when using web forms, the handling of information becomes much more fluid. Data is processed and displayed in many ways, leaving behind the use of physical formats that had to be manually captured and processed for storage.

There is a massive reach

There is no doubt about this advantage. Web forms may have a greater distribution than physical ones. Plus, they can have a massive reach if shared through the right channels.

Form Features

Every good form must have essential characteristics that are easy for users to attend to. Next, you will know what are the main items with which a well-prepared form must comply.

be clear and simple

Both the interface and the indications must make the user feel calm and with zero confusion. It is important not to make a form that requires a lot of effort, as the person may choose to abandon it.

Use of CTAs

If the intention is for users to enter the form and share their data, what better way to do it than through a call to action. Using an attractive CTA will help to obtain those conversions that we want.

Visual contrast with the site

This feature is much more visual and stylish than the rest. It is important to present forms that stimulate people through colors and their integration of elements. Make sure that the forms faithfully represent the company.

Go from the general to the particular

This means that the degree of complexity to be handled in the form has to increase little by little. It is important to start with basic questions (such as asking name, age, gender, occupation, etc.) until you reach slightly more detailed questions about what you really want to know

Information about the form

This is essential in any type of form. It is desired that each form have a title and a brief description that, in addition to attracting the attention of the user, declares that the data provided will not be misused. It is essential to appeal to good practices and management of user information.

Clear writing that avoids errors

It is important to be as clear as possible with the instructions. It is ideal that they be brief, but well explained, so that the user does not get bored reading extensive and poorly written instructions.

Types of forms relevant to your company

There are various types of forms, each with its own characteristics and purposes. Next, we will present what these forms are and what their elements are.

contact forms

These types of forms help to start a relationship between the company and the user, since the base of a bilateral contact is established. It is ideal for receiving notifications and updates of all kinds.

registration forms

It works as a tool that houses the data of a company's customers. This is done in order to save a person's preferences and personal data to facilitate future actions. It serves to improve the service to users.

order forms

In addition to the registration form, this type of form helps to know and save customer data when placing an order. Here you can find out the delivery address, payment method and billing information.

donation forms

These are employed by charities and non-profit organizations. They are usually used to find out the personal and contact details of donors.

subscription forms

In one of the simplest forms that can be, since very little information is requested. Likewise, they are often used to ensure that users subscribe to content that may be of interest to them, mainly newsletters. From these forms, it is possible to build a spectrum of customer loyalty.

login forms

We've all been through a login form. And it is that they are essential for users to access their data or information from a certain site.

qualification forms

They are used to qualify the experience, help or quality of a website, product or service. They are usually known as Likert surveys and CSAT satisfaction scale.

Schedule a call with MHA and learn how to create perfect forms and sell more and better.