Create digital forms, smart with workflow ..

Digital formifying with workflow. Formulieren play an important role in controlling processes in the organization. So improving with digital forms is extra interesting. Especially with workflow forms.  Whether it's qualitymanagement, a VCA safety checklist, a checklist for operational excellence or a commissioning process where different departments are involved. Digitization is advancing, also for (workflow) processing. And not just because we are working more and more mobile.
 

Digital forms, benefits

A mistaken idea is that a digital form is simply the translation of a paper formulier. Digital forms work very differently on an image. It adapts to the size of the display whether it is a PC screen, a tablet or a smartphone. The user interaction also differs. A mouse is available on a PC and help screens are available on a smartphone to enter data.
In addition, the entered data can be validated, additional explanation can be given with a so-called mouse-over and parts of the form can be hidden or made visible depending on previously given answers.
Perhaps the most important thing is being able to add a workflow. Many forms are layered to visualize the steps in the process. With a workflow, this is immediately 'digitally anchored' in the process. Users will be notified when they need to do what. And it is later visible who did what and when.

In summary, digital forms with workflow come into their own when the following aspects come into play:

• the order of work
• the demonstrability of activities
• Escalation mechanism
• Mobile use in combination with camera
• Determine results Layout form
• Direct insight into collected data
   

Digital forms, points of attention

Clear digital forms save a lot of work afterwards. When successfully creating digital forms, consider the following points: 

1. Clear goal
   Make it clear to the user what the purpose of the form is and that filling it in is useful. Explain what is expected and what will happen to the form. Avoid uselessly filled in forms. And of course give the form a clear title. 
    
2. Relevant and clear questions
   Ask clear, simple questions. One thing at a time and keep the questions in the form short and to the point. The questions are of course relevant to the purpose of the form.
    
3. Correct fields
   Apply the appropriate fields to match the demand. Mark required fields with an *. Multiple choice questions must be crystal clear. Text boxes should allow enough space. Apply date fields as needed.
    
4. KISS: Keep It Simple and Stupid
   Make the form short and to the point. Use context-sensitive fields in the form so that the filler only sees questions that apply to him . Think of KISS.
    
5. Preliminary explanation
   Provide the explanation in advance. This prevents incorrect completion of the digital form. In the explanation, be as concise and clear as possible.
    
6. Faultless
   Forms must be error-free. To ensure that they are filled in with as little effort as possible and to prevent dropouts. It often concerns ignorant users, who fill in the digital form for the first time!
    
7. Everyday language
   Use everyday language, with only useful information. Short and readable. Avoid jargon. Make it scannable.
    
8. Fight for the square millimeter
   Digital forms are increasingly being filled in on mobile devices;  a fight for the square millimeter. Make sure that even with a small input screen, the online form is easy to fill in. Use a form with responsive design. 
    
9. After Sending
   Make it clear to the user what happens to the form and HIS data after it has been submitted. If necessary, make it clear in the form what the workflow is. 
    
10. Test forms
    It is often unclear what problems the user encounters. Therefore, test the digital form in advance.

Following the rules the software.
This short video shows the use of the management system Infoware as a cloud solution for digital forms. 
For a detailed explanation, check out our Infoware product page, the Infoware demo environment or try it NOW (in 60 seconds ..).