General formatting
- Use a minimum 10pt font such as Arial or Times New Roman.
- Keep the form concise and only include fields that are needed.
- Add a "message" to create larger headings or additional information.
- Test forms and form actions thoroughly before publishing.
- Use labels (displayed field names) that are complete and self-explanatory.
- Using a CAPTCHA may help to reduce spam.
- Use high contrast colors for foreground and background areas.
Required fields
- Required fields will be indicated to the customer by a black or orange asterick to the right of the field name.
- It is common for customers to miss these small astericks and be unable to Submit the form.
Recommendations:
- At the top of the form, include a message such as "* = required field" in a large font.
- Add the phrase "(required)" in the label.
- Add a note at the bottom of the form near the Submit button such as "If the Submit button is unavailable, please check that all required fields were completed."
Formatted fields
- Fields such as email addresses and phone numbers can be set for specific formats.
- If the format is not followed, the customer will receive an error message.
Recommendations:
- Add the format to the label such as "Phone Number (NNN-NNN-NNNN format)" to help the customer get the correct format the first time.
- Add a "help message" to clarify.
Grouping information
- Use sections to group "like" information such as contact information.
- This organizes the information for the customer and for you.
Special formatting
- Custom formatting can be created for fields such as SU ID numbers.
Recommendations:
- Any time custom formatting is used, always put an example of the format in the label.
- Test these formats extensively to make sure that they function correctly.
- Add a "help message" to clarify.