Checklist for Usability Forms

Junior WebHelper Joined: 09 Jul 2008 Posts: 1

HTML forms are one way a Professional website design can send data to Web sites. They are essential in almost every interaction one can have with a site, such as: Queries on search engines, providing information (tags, comments, personal data, logins/registering, etc) and Finding/purchasing certain objects from e-catalogs.

In most cases, forms usability will improve the usability of the entire site. The primary goal of form usability is making sure that the intended users are able to interact properly with the Web site while having a positive and convenient experience.

Helping users understand the form will save them time and ensure that they provide correct input. On the other hand, instructions should be as concise as possible. Always take into account potential users and that your forms address to both new and experienced visitors. All forms should always contain this essential information: Title - what the form is for, Contact details to provide help with filling in the form and Send or Submit button at the end, optionally cancel button.

Avoid using forms with a large number of fields to be completed. Never ask for duplicate information (when the form has more than one page, this is a common mistake). It helps to run a use-of-information audit a while after the release of the form to see if the information collected was actually ever used. If it wasn't, it shouldn't be collected any more. Split your forms - long forms are confusing. If your form is too long, try dividing it into several pages, each fulfilling a different task (ex.: one for product details, one for personal data and one for payment and delivery details).