Creating forms on Shopify can seem daunting, especially for those without extensive coding knowledge. However, there are several ways to create forms on Shopify easily, without requiring advanced technical skills. In this article, we will explore five methods to create forms on Shopify, making it simple for you to collect information from your customers, improve user experience, and boost sales.
What Are Forms on Shopify?
Forms on Shopify are essential for collecting data from customers, such as contact information, preferences, and feedback. They can be used for various purposes, including contact forms, surveys, quizzes, and even checkout processes. By creating effective forms, you can enhance the user experience, increase engagement, and ultimately drive sales.
Method 1: Using Shopify's Built-in Form Builder
Shopify provides a built-in form builder that allows you to create basic forms without coding. To access the form builder, follow these steps:
- Log in to your Shopify dashboard.
- Click on "Online Store" > "Themes" > "Edit code".
- In the code editor, navigate to the "templates" directory.
- Click on "Add a new template" and select "Form".
- Choose a form template or start from scratch.
- Customize the form fields, layout, and settings as desired.
- Save and publish the form.
While Shopify's built-in form builder is easy to use, it has limitations. You can only create basic forms with limited customization options.
Pros and Cons of Shopify's Built-in Form Builder
Pros:
- Easy to use, no coding required
- Fast and simple form creation
- Built-in integration with Shopify
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Basic form functionality only
- Not suitable for complex forms or workflows
Method 2: Using a Third-Party Form App
Shopify's app store offers a wide range of form apps that can help you create more advanced forms with ease. Some popular form apps include:
- Formidable Forms
- JotForm
- Typeform
- Formstack
These apps provide more features and customization options compared to Shopify's built-in form builder. You can create complex forms, workflows, and integrations with other apps.
To use a third-party form app, follow these steps:
- Visit the Shopify app store.
- Search for a form app that suits your needs.
- Install and set up the app.
- Create a new form using the app's interface.
- Customize the form fields, layout, and settings as desired.
- Publish the form on your Shopify store.
Pros and Cons of Using a Third-Party Form App
Pros:
- More features and customization options
- Advanced form functionality and workflows
- Integration with other apps and services
Cons:
- May require a subscription or one-time payment
- Can be overwhelming with too many options
- May require technical support
Method 3: Using a Page Builder with Form Integration
Page builders like Shogun, PageFly, and GemPages offer form integration features that allow you to create forms within their interfaces. These page builders provide a drag-and-drop interface, making it easy to create forms and customize their design.
To use a page builder with form integration, follow these steps:
- Install a page builder app from the Shopify app store.
- Create a new page or edit an existing one.
- Drag and drop a form element into the page.
- Customize the form fields, layout, and settings as desired.
- Publish the page with the form.
Pros and Cons of Using a Page Builder with Form Integration
Pros:
- Easy to use, drag-and-drop interface
- Customizable form design and layout
- Integration with other page elements
Cons:
- May require a subscription or one-time payment
- Limited form functionality compared to dedicated form apps
- Can be overwhelming with too many options
Method 4: Using a Contact Form Plugin
Contact form plugins like Contact Form 7, WPForms, and Gravity Forms provide a simple way to create contact forms on Shopify. These plugins offer a range of features, including customizable form fields, layouts, and notifications.
To use a contact form plugin, follow these steps:
- Install a contact form plugin from the Shopify app store.
- Create a new form or edit an existing one.
- Customize the form fields, layout, and settings as desired.
- Publish the form on your Shopify store.
Pros and Cons of Using a Contact Form Plugin
Pros:
- Easy to use, simple form creation
- Customizable form fields and layout
- Notification features for form submissions
Cons:
- Limited form functionality compared to dedicated form apps
- May require technical support
- Can be outdated or incompatible with Shopify updates
Method 5: Using Custom Coding
If you have advanced coding skills, you can create custom forms on Shopify using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This method provides the most flexibility and customization options, but requires extensive technical knowledge.
To use custom coding, follow these steps:
- Log in to your Shopify dashboard.
- Click on "Online Store" > "Themes" > "Edit code".
- Create a new form template or edit an existing one.
- Write custom HTML, CSS, and JavaScript code to create the form.
- Test and debug the form.
Pros and Cons of Using Custom Coding
Pros:
- Most flexible and customizable form creation
- Advanced form functionality and workflows
- Integration with other Shopify features and apps
Cons:
- Requires advanced coding skills
- Time-consuming and complex form creation
- May require ongoing maintenance and updates
In conclusion, creating forms on Shopify can be easy and straightforward, even for those without extensive technical knowledge. By using one of the five methods outlined in this article, you can create effective forms that enhance the user experience, increase engagement, and drive sales.
What is the best way to create a form on Shopify?
+The best way to create a form on Shopify depends on your technical skills and form requirements. If you want a simple form, Shopify's built-in form builder or a contact form plugin may be sufficient. For more advanced forms, consider using a third-party form app or custom coding.
Can I customize the design and layout of my form?
+Yes, most form creation methods on Shopify allow for customization of the design and layout. You can use page builders, form apps, or custom coding to create a form that matches your brand and style.
How do I integrate my form with other Shopify features and apps?
+Integration with other Shopify features and apps depends on the form creation method you choose. Third-party form apps and custom coding often provide more integration options compared to Shopify's built-in form builder or contact form plugins.