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Outline

In this module, you will explore how to create and manage forms within the CMS to collect and process user information effectively. You’ll learn how to build standard forms, set up multi-step forms for longer inputs, and use dependency-based forms to display fields dynamically based on user responses. The module also covers the All Properties Settings, where you can configure submission behaviors, notifications, and data management options.

​By the end of this module, you will be able to:​

  • Create and configure forms within the CMS.​

  • Design multi-step forms to collect information in a structured way.​

  • Build dependency-based forms that display fields conditionally based on user inputs.​

  • Manage form settings in the All Properties view, including submission redirects, confirmation messages, and email notifications.​

  • Configure advanced options such as data retention, visitor access, API integration, and external system mapping.​

Forms​

In Optimizely CMS, forms are used to collect user information such as email addresses through simple input fields or more complex setups. You can view all form submissions within the CMS, search or filter results, and even export data to formats like CSV, JSON, XLSX, or XML. It’s recommended to maintain a clear folder structure and consistent naming convention to easily manage multiple forms.

Watch the demo video to see how forms are created and managed:

Multi-step Forms​

In Optimizely Forms, you can create multi-step forms to guide users through a structured process, such as a job application that collects information across multiple pages. Each step can include specific form elements like basic details, file uploads, and additional questions, ensuring a clear and organized user experience. You can define where each step appears by adjusting the Display step in other content settings, allowing users to move seamlessly between pages. Once submitted, all form data is available in the Form Submissions area for review and export.

Watch the demo video to see how multi-step forms are created and managed:​

Dependency-based Forms​

In Optimizely CMS, you can create dependency-based forms to control which elements appear based on a user’s input. For example, in a product survey, selecting a specific product style such as trousers can trigger an additional product feedback field to appear. Dependencies can be configured to either show or hide fields depending on selected conditions, allowing for more personalized and dynamic forms. Always ensure a submit button is included and customize the confirmation message or redirect after submission as needed.

​Watch the demo video to see how dependency-based forms are created and managed:​

Forms (All Properties Settings)​

In the All Properties settings of a form, you can configure how users are redirected after submission—either to a display page after submission or by showing a confirmation message. You can enable options such as allow anonymous submissions, multiple submissions, navigation bar, and API access. Additional settings include connecting to marketing automation systems like ODP, defining metadata, setting email notifications, configuring webhooks, and managing retention policies for submission data. You can also control visitor group access, language settings, and expiration of time-sensitive forms.

Watch the demo video to explore how to manage and configure these settings in detail:​