SmartSuite forms provide a powerful way to collect information from people outside your organization. With SmartSuite's latest enhancements, forms have become even more versatile and user-friendly. This guide breaks down all the key features of SmartSuite forms, perfect for beginners.
Introduction to SmartSuite Forms
Forms allow you to gather data through a structured interface. When someone submits a SmartSuite form, it creates a record in the selected table. You can then view and work with the collected data seamlessly in SmartSuite.
While forms cannot currently write data to multiple tables, you can trigger automation based on form submissions. For example, an invoice form could automatically generate associated line item records.
Core Functionality
SmartSuite forms have some core capabilities:
One Record Per Submission
Each form submission creates just one record in one table. While you cannot write to multiple tables directly, workflows and automation can process form data to additional tables.
Independent vs. Dependent Fields
Independent fields allow direct data entry, like text, numbers, and selections. Dependent fields like formulas and lookups depend on other data and are calculated automatically.
Only independent fields can be used in forms for data collection. Dependent fields are displayed after form submission.
Step-by-Step Guide
Let's walk through building a basic SmartSuite form:
Creating a Table
First, create a table to store the form data:
- In your SmartSuite solution, create a new table
- Name it appropriately, like "Contact Form"
- Add desired fields like name, email, message, etc.
Adding Form Fields
Add independent fields from the table into your form:
- Navigate to Create View > Form
- Give the form a name and access settings
- Select fields like name, email, message to include in the form
Designing the Form
SmartSuite offers various styling options:
- Display media like images and videos
- Embed titles, descriptions
- Add dividers and color formatting
- Set field requirements
- Build conditional logic
Advanced Features
SmartSuite forms provide other notable capabilities:
Conditional Logic
Display form sections conditionally based on previous selections. For example, show address fields only if a "Ship order" checkbox is ticked.
Multimedia Embedding
Enhance forms with videos and images to guide users. For example, an instructional video could show how to fill the form correctly.
Styling Options
Make forms visually appealing with logos, colors, dividers, and more. Clear formatting improves user experience.
Best Practices
To maximize effectiveness:
- Guide users with videos, graphics and text
- Validate data with required fields
- Format visually with color, dividers and spacing
SmartSuite forms combine simplicity and customization for easy, powerful data collection. With robust features for beginners and experts alike, forms are indispensable for automating workflows.
To experience the future of work management firsthand, start your free SmartSuite trial today!
