At Array, we talk a lot about how easy it is to build powerful forms, automate workflows, and collect data without writing a single line of code. But rather than simply telling you how intuitive the platform is, we'd rather show you. In this guide, we'll walk you through creating your very first custom form with Array—from planning and building to sharing and analyzing results. The best part? You can have a fully functional form up and running in as little as 10 minutes.
Why Use Digital Forms?
Paper forms slow down operations, create unnecessary administrative work, and increase the risk of errors. Digital forms streamline data collection, improve accuracy, and make information instantly accessible across your organization.
Whether you're collecting inspection data, customer feedback, safety reports, service requests, or employee information, Array helps you gather the data you need faster and more efficiently.
Step 1: Plan Your Form
Before you open the Form Builder, take a few minutes to define exactly what you want your form to accomplish. One of the biggest mistakes new users make is jumping straight into form creation without a clear goal. Spending a little time planning will save you a lot of time later.
Ask yourself the following questions:
Who will be using this form?
Will it be:
- Field technicians?
- Quality assurance teams?
- Customers?
- Contractors?
- Internal employees?
Understanding your audience helps determine what information you need and how the form should be structured.
What information do you need to collect?
Think about the data points required to complete the task.
Examples include:
- Contact information
- Inspection details
- Photos and videos
- Signatures
- GPS locations
- Customer feedback
- Compliance records
Where will the data go?
Consider how the information will be used after submission.
Will it be:
- Reviewed internally?
- Sent to management?
- Integrated into another system?
- Used to generate reports?
How will users access the form?
Array offers several ways to distribute forms, including:
- SMS
- QR codes
- Website embeds
- Public links
- Mobile applications
Having a clear plan before you start building will make the entire process faster and more effective.
Step 2: Build Your Form
Once you've planned your form, it's time to start building.
Log into Array and navigate to the Form Builder. Click Create to begin.
Add Form Fields
The Form Builder uses a simple drag-and-drop interface that makes creating forms incredibly easy.
You'll find common form elements such as:
- Name fields
- Address fields
- Email fields
- Phone number fields
- Date selectors
Simply drag the field onto your form and customize it as needed.
Create Custom Questions
Need something more specific?
Array provides flexible field types including:
- Short Answer
- Long Answer
- Number Fields
- Multiple Choice
- Dropdown Menus
- Checkboxes
Simply drag the desired field into place and edit the question text.
Capture Rich Media
Many forms require more than just text.
With Array, you can also collect:
- Photos
- Videos
- GPS Coordinates
- Signatures
- File Uploads
This is especially useful for inspections, audits, field reporting, and compliance documentation.
Organize Your Layout
Once you've added your fields, arrange them into a logical flow using drag-and-drop functionality. A well-organized form improves completion rates and creates a better user experience.
Step 3: Share Your Form
Once your form is complete, it's ready to be distributed. Navigate to the Share tab to access Array's sharing options.
Email Distribution
Send forms directly to recipients through email. Perfect for surveys, customer requests, or internal workflows.
Public Links and QR Codes
Generate a shareable link or QR code that users can access from any device.
Ideal for:
- Self-inspections
- Event registrations
- Customer feedback forms
- Service requests
Website Embeds
Embed forms directly onto your website using HTML or iframe code. This allows visitors to submit information without leaving your site.
Custom URLs
Create branded, easy-to-remember links for a more professional appearance.
Access Controls
Array also allows you to customize public access settings so only authorized users can view or submit your forms. This helps maintain security and data integrity.
Step 4: Track Results in Real Time
Once submissions begin rolling in, you'll want visibility into the data you're collecting. Array's Results Dashboard gives you a centralized location to review all submissions.
Get an Instant Overview
See all form responses in one place and monitor activity as it happens.
Filter and Analyze Data
Need deeper insights?
Use filters to sort submissions by:
- User
- Team
- Date
- Location
- Form status
- Custom criteria
This makes it easy to identify trends, track performance, and uncover actionable insights.
Turn Data Into Action
The information collected through your forms can be used to:
- Improve workflows
- Monitor compliance
- Track project progress
- Generate reports
- Support business decisions
Instead of data sitting in filing cabinets or spreadsheets, it becomes a valuable operational asset.
Start Building Smarter Forms Today
Creating your first form with Array is simple:
- Plan your form.
- Build your fields.
- Share with users.
- Track your results.
In just a few minutes, you can replace paper-based processes with powerful digital workflows that save time, improve accuracy, and provide better visibility into your operations.
Your Business. Powered by Array.
Array helps organizations collect, manage, and analyze data more efficiently through intelligent forms, automated workflows, reporting tools, and mobile applications. Whether you're managing inspections, compliance processes, field operations, or customer interactions, Array provides the tools you need to work smarter—not harder.
