One question that we get asked a lot through our support channels is, “What is the best way to collect information from clients to help create their StickyApp?”
Ideally, you will be able to get most of the information you need by talking to your client or by reviewing their current website. But sometimes you will need more information or you may need to verify the data you already have.
The tool I use most often to collect client data is Google Forms. I love using Google forms for three reasons.
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Free unlimited forms - Gotta love anything that’s free! You just need a Gmail account.
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Easy to customize - You can make it match ‘you’ and your brand.
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Easy to share - With clients and each other! Data is collected in an easy to share spread sheet.
Getting Started:
Login to your Google Drive account and click on the big, red NEW button, then scroll down to “more” and select Form. It’s very intuitive and easy to use. Simply add the question type you want, fill in the details and repeat as needed. If there are key questions or things you don’t want your client to skip you can always make the question required. The form won’t submit until they answer the question.
To view what your form will look like to your clients as well as to test, click the “View live form” link found at the top of the form editor.
Google forms will also allow you to customize your questions based upon the client's answer. For example, if you ask clients if they already have a website, you can direct them to a page that requests additional information on hosting. If they don’t have a website you can direct them to a page to work on getting them a domain.
Customizing
You can customize the look of your form by adding your logo, a custom header, or by changing the colors and fonts. You can also select one of the pre designed default templates. To customize the theme click “Change theme” in the form editor toolbar, then select a theme or click “Customize” to make additional changes.
Sharing
When you are ready to share your form, click the blue “SEND FORM” button. This is in the top right hand corner of the screen. Using the built-in features you can share the form via email or share to social media. You can even directly link your survey to a StickyApp or StickyAlbum. Just copy the share link and create a button widget (Apps) or an image link (Albums) that links to your survey.
When users complete your survey, their replies are stored in a Google spreadsheet. The Sheet can be shared with your team or anyone who needs access to the data.
To receive a notification when the survey is completed, open the Sheet (it will have the same title as your form). Select Tools – > Notification Rules and select the option that says Notify me when “a user submits a form.” You can also set how frequently you would like to be notified. Depending upon the use of Google Forms, you can select to be notified each time the form is filled out or opt for a daily digest. Select the option that suits your specific needs.
That’s the basics - now get creating! I can’t wait to see what you come up with. I plan to do a follow up highlighting the creative ways you use Google Forms. Please share your ideas and send your Google Forms link to shannon@stickyalbums.com
Creative ways to use Google Forms:
New Customer Information
Client Survey
Customer Feedback
Vote for Contests
Gather Feedback on New Products