Building Complex Forms in Webflow Using Formally: A No-Code Tutorial

Building Complex Forms in Webflow Using Formally

Webflow has gained popularity for its versatility in building complex and interactive websites without the need to code. One of the more intricate experiences that can be built in Webflow is a complex form. These forms are valuable in guiding users through complex signups, quizzes, and gathering information. These forms can also be used to create marketing experiences and multi-step forms with logic or certain paths built-in. In this tutorial, we will learn how to build complex forms in Webflow using a tool called "Formally." Formally is a no-code solution that enhances the abilities of forms inside of Webflow. It uses attributes similar to those found in Fin Suite to expand the functionality of Webflow forms.

In this tutorial, we will walk through the process of building a complex multi-step form using Formally in Webflow. We will also provide a cloneable project for users to experiment and have fun with creating their own complex forms.

Understanding the Use Case

Before diving into the form-building process, it's essential to understand the use case for such complex forms. These forms can be used in various scenarios, such as:

1. Customer Surveys: Gathering detailed information about customers' preferences and behavior.
2. User Onboarding: Guiding users through a series of steps to set up their accounts or profiles.
3. Product Configurators: Allowing users to customize and configure products or services.
4. Decision Trees: Presenting users with a series of choices that lead them down different paths based on their selections.

Planning the Form Structure

Before creating the form in Webflow, it's crucial to plan the structure and the logic behind the form. A detailed plan should include:

1. The questions to be asked in the form.
2. The possible paths or outcomes based on the user's responses.
3. The visual design and layout of the form elements.

Setting Up the Webflow Project

Once the planning is done, start by setting up the Webflow project. This involves creating a new project and adding the necessary elements such as sections, forms, and form components. The process might involve using plugins like Client First and Fin Suite to streamline the core structure of the form.

Designing the Form Components

The next step is to design the individual form components. This includes creating input fields, radio buttons, checkboxes, and other necessary elements based on the planned form structure. Each step of the form should be designed as a separate card or section, with the ability to navigate back and forth between the steps.

Adding Interactivity Using Formally Attributes

To enhance the functionality of the form, Formally attributes need to be added to the form elements. These attributes enable multi-step navigation, quiz validation, and data submission based on user selections. By implementing the Formally attributes, the form can handle complex logic and guide users through a series of questions leading to specific outcomes.

Creating Conditional Paths

With Formally, it is possible to create branching paths within the form based on the user's responses. This means that the user's selection in one question can determine the next set of questions they will be presented with. Conditional logic is crucial in building a form that feels interactive and personalized for each user.

Designing the Results Section

After the user completes the form, they should be presented with a results section that reflects their choices and provides relevant information or recommendations based on their input. The results section can be designed to dynamically display the outcome of the user's selections, giving them a personalized experience.

Implementing Submission and Redirection

The final step involves implementing the form submission functionality and redirecting the user to the appropriate page or action after completing the form. This could include sending the form data to a database, triggering email notifications, or redirecting the user to a confirmation page or a scheduling tool.

Testing and Iterating

Once the form is built, it's essential to thoroughly test its functionality and user experience. Testing should involve following different paths within the form, ensuring that conditional logic works as expected, and verifying that the submission and redirection processes function seamlessly. Any issues or bugs discovered during testing should be addressed, and the form should be iterated upon to ensure a smooth user experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, creating complex forms in Webflow using Formally opens up opportunities to build engaging and interactive experiences for users. By leveraging attributes and conditional logic, Webflow users can design personalized multi-step forms, surveys, and decision trees without the need for extensive coding. The ability to guide users through a series of questions, collect valuable data, and provide tailored outcomes makes complex forms a valuable tool in web design and user engagement.

By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, beginners can learn how to build complex forms in Webflow and experiment with the interactive and logic-based capabilities offered by Formally. The provided cloneable project allows users to delve deeper into the form-building process and customize the forms to suit their specific needs. With a clear understanding of the planning, design, and implementation process, users can create complex forms that provide a more valuable and personalized experience for their audience.