SharePoint has revolutionized the way organizations manage and share information, and creating fillable forms is an essential part of this process. Fillable forms enable users to collect data, automate workflows, and streamline business processes. In this article, we will explore five ways to create SharePoint fillable forms, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.
What are SharePoint Fillable Forms?
SharePoint fillable forms are electronic forms that allow users to input data, which is then stored in a SharePoint list or library. These forms can be used to collect data from users, automate workflows, and trigger business processes. SharePoint fillable forms can be created using various tools and techniques, including Microsoft InfoPath, SharePoint Designer, and third-party add-ins.
Method 1: Using Microsoft InfoPath
Microsoft InfoPath is a powerful tool for creating SharePoint fillable forms. With InfoPath, you can design and deploy forms that integrate seamlessly with SharePoint. Here are the steps to create a fillable form using InfoPath:
- Open InfoPath and create a new form template
- Design the form layout and add controls such as text boxes, dropdown menus, and checkboxes
- Configure the form to connect to a SharePoint list or library
- Deploy the form to SharePoint
Advantages of Using InfoPath
- Powerful design and deployment features
- Integrates seamlessly with SharePoint
- Supports complex form logic and validation
Disadvantages of Using InfoPath
- Requires expertise in InfoPath and SharePoint
- Limited support for modern browsers and devices
- Dependent on InfoPath client installation
Method 2: Using SharePoint Designer
SharePoint Designer is a free tool that allows you to create and customize SharePoint sites, including fillable forms. Here are the steps to create a fillable form using SharePoint Designer:
- Open SharePoint Designer and connect to your SharePoint site
- Create a new list or library and design the form layout
- Add controls such as text boxes, dropdown menus, and checkboxes
- Configure the form to collect data and trigger workflows
Advantages of Using SharePoint Designer
- Free and easy to use
- Integrates seamlessly with SharePoint
- Supports basic form logic and validation
Disadvantages of Using SharePoint Designer
- Limited design and deployment features
- Limited support for complex form logic and validation
- Dependent on SharePoint Designer installation
Method 3: Using Power Apps
Power Apps is a cloud-based platform that allows you to create custom business applications, including fillable forms. Here are the steps to create a fillable form using Power Apps:
- Create a new Power Apps account and connect to your SharePoint site
- Design the form layout and add controls such as text boxes, dropdown menus, and checkboxes
- Configure the form to collect data and trigger workflows
- Deploy the form to SharePoint
Advantages of Using Power Apps
- Cloud-based and accessible from anywhere
- Supports complex form logic and validation
- Integrates seamlessly with SharePoint and other Microsoft tools
Disadvantages of Using Power Apps
- Requires expertise in Power Apps and SharePoint
- Limited support for modern browsers and devices
- Dependent on Power Apps subscription
Method 4: Using Third-Party Add-ins
There are many third-party add-ins available that can help you create SharePoint fillable forms. These add-ins can provide advanced features and functionality, such as conditional logic, validation, and integration with other systems. Here are the steps to create a fillable form using a third-party add-in:
- Research and select a suitable add-in
- Install and configure the add-in
- Design the form layout and add controls such as text boxes, dropdown menus, and checkboxes
- Configure the form to collect data and trigger workflows
Advantages of Using Third-Party Add-ins
- Advanced features and functionality
- Supports complex form logic and validation
- Integrates seamlessly with SharePoint
Disadvantages of Using Third-Party Add-ins
- Requires expertise in the add-in and SharePoint
- Dependent on add-in subscription and support
- May require additional costs and resources
Method 5: Using Microsoft Forms
Microsoft Forms is a cloud-based platform that allows you to create custom forms, including fillable forms. Here are the steps to create a fillable form using Microsoft Forms:
- Create a new Microsoft Forms account and connect to your SharePoint site
- Design the form layout and add controls such as text boxes, dropdown menus, and checkboxes
- Configure the form to collect data and trigger workflows
- Deploy the form to SharePoint
Advantages of Using Microsoft Forms
- Cloud-based and accessible from anywhere
- Supports basic form logic and validation
- Integrates seamlessly with SharePoint and other Microsoft tools
Disadvantages of Using Microsoft Forms
- Limited support for complex form logic and validation
- Dependent on Microsoft Forms subscription
- Limited support for modern browsers and devices
In conclusion, creating SharePoint fillable forms can be achieved through various methods, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The choice of method depends on your organization's specific needs, expertise, and resources.
Final Thoughts
Creating SharePoint fillable forms is an essential part of streamlining business processes and automating workflows. By choosing the right method and tool, you can create forms that are easy to use, efficient, and effective. Remember to consider factors such as form complexity, validation, and integration with other systems when selecting a method.
We hope this article has provided you with the necessary information to create SharePoint fillable forms that meet your organization's needs. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.
What is the best method for creating SharePoint fillable forms?
+The best method for creating SharePoint fillable forms depends on your organization's specific needs, expertise, and resources. Consider factors such as form complexity, validation, and integration with other systems when selecting a method.
Can I use Microsoft InfoPath to create SharePoint fillable forms?
+Yes, Microsoft InfoPath is a powerful tool for creating SharePoint fillable forms. However, it requires expertise in InfoPath and SharePoint, and has limited support for modern browsers and devices.
What are the advantages of using Power Apps to create SharePoint fillable forms?
+Power Apps is a cloud-based platform that supports complex form logic and validation, and integrates seamlessly with SharePoint and other Microsoft tools. However, it requires expertise in Power Apps and SharePoint, and has limited support for modern browsers and devices.