how to create a fillable form for website

II. What is a Fillable Form?

A fillable form, also known as an interactive PDF, editable PDF, or writable PDF, is a digital document designed to accept user input. It allows users to type directly into designated fields, making it faster and more convenient than traditional paper forms. Fillable forms are commonly used for various purposes such as applications, e-signatures, surveys, and contracts, enhancing efficiency and user experience.

III. Why Use Fillable Forms on Your Website?

Implementing fillable forms on your website provides several key advantages. Fillable forms allow for improved data collection by ensuring that information is submitted in a structured and organized manner, reducing errors and manual processing. Furthermore, they increase user engagement by providing an interactive and user-friendly experience, making it easier for visitors to interact with your website. Finally, they streamline workflows by automating data entry and processing, saving time and resources.

IV. Types of Fillable Forms for Websites

Several types of fillable forms can enhance your website's functionality and user experience. Contact forms allow visitors to easily reach out to you with inquiries or feedback. Registration forms streamline the process of gathering user information for events, subscriptions, or memberships. Survey forms enable you to collect valuable feedback and opinions from your audience. Order forms simplify the purchasing process for products or services. Feedback forms allow you to continuously improve your offerings based on user input and quizzes allows you to engage with your audience and test their knowledge.

V. Methods to Create Fillable Forms for Websites

There are several ways to create fillable forms for your website, ranging from dedicated software to online tools. While Adobe Acrobat Pro is a powerful option, it requires a subscription and can be complex to use. Microsoft Word also provides some form creation capabilities, but it is not specifically designed for this purpose. Online form builders like BreezyPDF offer a more user-friendly and efficient solution for creating fillable forms.

A. Using Adobe Acrobat Pro

Adobe Acrobat Pro is a professional tool that offers robust features for creating fillable forms. The process of creating a fillable form in Adobe Acrobat Pro can be done either from scratch or from an existing PDF. Each process has its own set of steps that must be followed to achieve the desired result.

Creating from Scratch

1. Open Adobe Acrobat Pro.
2. Go to Tools and select "Prepare Form."
3. Create a new document (File > Create > Blank Document).
4. Add form fields using the toolbar (text, checkbox, radio button, dropdown).
5. Adjust field properties (name, size, validation).
6. Save the document as a PDF.

Creating from an Existing PDF

1. Open the PDF in Adobe Acrobat Pro.
2. Go to Tools and select "Prepare Form."
3. Let Acrobat automatically detect form fields or manually add them.
4. Review, edit, and adjust the form fields.
5. Save the file as a PDF.

Submitting Web Forms

1. Open a PDF document and then from the All tools menu, select Prepare a form.
2. On the page that opens, select Create form.
3. From the left panel, select Button and then position the button coordinates where you want to place the button.
4. Double click the button and then set the button properties as follows:
5. Select Actions tab and then from the Select Trigger drop-down menu, select Mouse Up.
6. From the Select Action drop-down menu, select Submit a form.
7. Select Add.
8. In the Submit Form Selections dialog box, type a URL in the Enter a URL for this link field.
9. To send the form data to a web server, enter the destination URL.
10. To send the form data to an email address, enter mailto: followed by the email address. For example, type mailto:[email protected].
11. Select one of the following Export Format options:
    • FDF: You can select one or more of the available options: user-entered data, comments, and incremental changes to the PDF file. The Incremental Changes To The PDF option is useful for exporting a digital signature in a way a server can easily read and reconstruct. Note: If the server returns data to the user in FDF or XFDF format, the server’s URL must end with the #FDF suffix—for example, http://myserver/cgi-bin/myscript#FDF.
    • HTML: Exports as an HTML file.
    • XFDF: Exports as an XML file. You can choose to export the form fields data, comments, or both.
    • PDF The complete document: Exports the entire PDF file that is your form. It creates a larger file than the FDF option but the option is useful for preserving digital signatures.
12. Specify the Field Selection and date format as required. Once done, select Ok.
    • All fields: Exports all form fields even if the form fields do not contain values.
    • Only these: Exports only the form fields you specify by clicking Select Fields and indicating which form fields to include and whether you want to include empty fields.
    • Convert dates to standard format: Exports all form dates in a single format, regardless of how they are entered in the form.

Add "Reset a Form" Button

1. Open a PDF document and then from the All tools menu, select Prepare a form.
2. On the page that opens, select Create form.
3. From the left panel, select Button and then position the button coordinates where you want to place the button.
4. Double click the button and then set the button properties as follows:
5. Select Actions tab and then from the Select Trigger drop-down menu, select Mouse Up.
6. From the Select Action drop-down menu, select Reset a form.
7. Select Add.
8. In the Reset a form dialog box:
   • Select check boxes for specific fields or choose Select All.
9. Select Ok.

Add "Import a Form" Button

1. From the All tools menu, select Prepare a form and then on the page that opens, select Create form.
2. From the left panel, select Button and then position the button coordinates where you want to place the button.
3. Double click the button and then set the button properties as follows:
4. Select Actions tab and then from the Select Trigger drop-down menu, select Mouse Up.
5. From the Select Action drop-down menu, select Import form data.
6. Select Add.
7. Locate and select an FDF file and then select Open.

CGI Export Values

• For check boxes or radio buttons, use the default export value (Yes) to indicate selection.
• For drop-down lists, provide an export value only if it needs to differ from the listed item, like matching a database field name. If no explicit export value is entered, the selected item serves as the export value.
• Related radio buttons must share the same form field name but have different export values. This enables proper toggling and ensures accurate data collection in the database.

B. Using Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word can also be used to create fillable forms, although it is less specialized than Adobe Acrobat Pro. To do this, you'll need to enable the Developer tab and then use the controls to add form fields. This method is suitable for basic forms, but it may lack some of the advanced features offered by dedicated form builders.

Enabling the Developer Tab

1. Show the Developer tab
2. In Word, be sure you have the Developer tab displayed in the ribbon.
3. (See how here: Show the developer tab.)

Creating Fillable Forms

1. Open a template or a blank document on which to base the form
2. You can start with a template or just start from scratch with a blank document.
3. Start with a form template
4. Start with a blank document
5. Add content to the form
6. Go to the Developer tab Controls section where you can choose controls to add to your document or form. Hover over any icon therein to see what control type it represents. The various control types are described below. You can set properties on a control once it has been inserted.

Adding and Customizing Form Fields

1. Insert a text control
2. Insert a picture control
3. Insert a building block control
4. Insert a combo box or a drop-down list
5. Insert a date picker
6. Insert a check box
7. Use the legacy form controls
8. Each content control has properties that you can set or change. For example, the Date Picker control offers options for the format you want to use to display the date.
   • Select the content control that you want to change.
   • Go to Developer > Properties.
   • Change the properties that you want.

Add protection to a form

1. Open the form that you want to lock or protect.
2. Select Developer > Restrict Editing.
3. After selecting restrictions, select Yes, Start Enforcing Protection.

C. Online Form Builders (Mention BreezyPDF)

Online form builders offer a more streamlined and user-friendly approach to creating fillable forms. These tools often feature drag-and-drop interfaces, customizable templates, and integration options. BreezyPDF stands out as a simple, private, and free solution for creating fillable forms directly in your browser. BreezyPDF requires no sign-up or downloads, making it an accessible option for users of all skill levels. With BreezyPDF, creating professional-looking forms has never been easier or more secure.

Features and benefits of BreezyPDF

• Easy drag-and-drop interface: BreezyPDF's intuitive interface allows you to easily add and position form fields with just a few clicks.
• Customizable templates: Start with a pre-designed template or create your own form from scratch.
• Integration options: While BreezyPDF doesn't offer direct integration, you can easily download your fillable form and embed it on your website.
• Mobile responsiveness: Ensure your forms look great and function perfectly on any device.

Creating fillable forms with BreezyPDF: A step-by-step guide.

To start, simply open BreezyPDF in your browser. Click the input box icon to add a new field, then drag it to your desired location. You can add text, signatures, images, and even password protection to your PDF. Once you're satisfied, download the form and embed it on your website.

VI. Accessibility Considerations for Fillable Forms

Creating accessible fillable forms is essential to ensure that everyone, including individuals with disabilities, can access and use your forms. An accessible form design not only improves user experience but also ensures compliance with accessibility standards. By adhering to best practices, you can create forms that are inclusive and user-friendly for all.

Properly labeling fields, providing sufficient contrast, ensuring keyboard navigation, and maintaining screen reader compatibility are crucial for creating accessible forms. Clear and descriptive labels help users understand the purpose of each field. Sufficient contrast between text and background ensures readability for users with visual impairments. Keyboard navigation allows users to navigate the form without a mouse. Screen reader compatibility ensures that the form can be used by individuals who rely on screen readers.

Consider using Microsoft Forms if it meets your needs, as it has baked-in accessibility features that can alleviate much of the work of creating your own accessible forms. By following these guidelines, you can create fillable forms that are accessible and inclusive for all users.

VII. Embedding and Sharing Fillable Forms on Your Website

Once you have created your fillable form, embedding it on your website is the next crucial step. There are several methods for embedding forms, each with its own advantages and considerations. The method you choose will depend on your website platform, technical skills, and desired user experience.

Different methods for embedding forms include using a direct link, iframe embedding, or a button or text link. A direct link simply provides a URL that users can click to access the form. Iframe embedding allows you to display the form directly within your website's content. A button or text link provides a visually appealing way for users to access the form. Ensure your form placement and user experience are optimized to encourage completion and reduce frustration. Careful consideration of these factors can lead to higher form completion rates and better user engagement.

VIII. Alternatives to PDF Forms

While PDF forms are a popular choice, there are several alternatives to consider, each with its own set of pros and cons. Online web forms, such as Google Forms, Microsoft Forms, Jotform, and Formstack, offer a convenient way to create and embed forms directly on your website. CMS plugins for platforms like WordPress, Contentful, and Umbraco provide integration options for creating and managing forms within your existing website infrastructure.

Online web forms are often easier to create and manage than PDF forms, but they may lack some of the advanced formatting and security features. PDF forms offer greater control over the layout and design, but they may require more technical expertise to create and embed. CMS plugins provide a balance between ease of use and customization, but they may require a specific CMS platform. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each option to determine the best fit for your needs.

IX. Case Studies or Examples

Examining real-world examples of websites effectively using fillable forms can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Many organizations use fillable forms for various purposes, such as collecting customer feedback, processing job applications, and managing event registrations. Analyzing the design and functionality of these forms can help you create more effective and user-friendly forms for your own website.

For instance, a university might use fillable forms for student applications, making it easier for applicants to submit their information online. A non-profit organization could use fillable forms to collect donations and volunteer sign-ups, streamlining the process for supporters. By studying these examples, you can learn best practices for designing and implementing fillable forms on your website.

X. Best Practices for Designing Effective Fillable Forms

Designing effective fillable forms is crucial for maximizing user engagement and data collection. Keep your forms simple and concise to avoid overwhelming users. Use clear and descriptive labels to help users understand the purpose of each field. Group related fields together to improve the form's organization and flow. Provide helpful instructions to guide users through the form. Ensure your forms are mobile responsive to accommodate users on different devices.

XI. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Several common mistakes can detract from the effectiveness of fillable forms. Avoid overly long forms, as they can discourage users from completing them. Steer clear of confusing layouts, as they can make it difficult for users to navigate the form. Ensure clear instructions are present to guide users through each section. Make sure you're not ignoring accessibility, as that can shut down a portion of the population from being able to use your form. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create fillable forms that are user-friendly and efficient.

XII. Conclusion

Fillable forms offer numerous benefits for websites, including improved data collection, increased user engagement, and streamlined workflows. By implementing fillable forms, you can enhance your website's functionality and user experience. BreezyPDF provides a simple, private, and free solution for creating fillable forms directly in your browser. Start creating your own fillable forms with BreezyPDF today and experience the difference.