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Forms, Design Basics
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10/28/2009 1:04 PM |
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The best thing you can do when you build a form is consider the user. Actually, this is the best thing you can do when it comes to any aspect of your website. Here are some guidelines that may help you:
Make the form visually appealing and easy to read
Make sure your form looks neat and uncluttered. You want your users to have an easy to follow path from the top of the form to the bottom. If you have a large form, you may want to divide it into sections so it is easier to read. You can also add headings to the sections that describe what is in that section. You may want to use a logo or other graphic to give the form a custom look.
Use what you need
Make sure you include fields for all of the information you need. However, it is also important to use only the fields you need. The two are similar, but not the same. If, for instance, you have a form that visitors use to request information, it is important to capture their contact information. However, if the form is used for a confidential survey, do not include contact fields.
Another consideration is the type of field that makes up the form. Some fields are filled in by the visitor and others have a drop down list that allows the visitor to make a selection. Be sure to use the type of field that you need and indicate which fields are required.
Use short descriptions when needed
Most fields are common sense and easy to complete. If you need to give the visitor some help, make it short and to the point. You also may want to give the visitor some added information. For instance, if you ask for contact information, you may want to include a statement that you will not share the email, telephone or other information with anyone else.
Be clear about the purpose of the form
Make sure your visitor knows if they are requesting information, giving information or ordering a product. You don’t want your users to be confused and think they are placing an order instead of requesting information.
Communicate success
After users submit the form, the first thing they want to know is if the form was actually sent. It is a good idea to have a success page with a statement like, “Thank you for your order. We will email you when we ship your order.”
Redirect the visitors
It’s important to keep visitors on your website. Therefore, redirect visitors back to one of your pages after they submit a form.
See also
Forms Fields. See a list of all the fields with links to each article.