Progressive form fields create a personalized and efficient experience by adapting forms based on how many times a user has interacted with them. Instead of relying on previous field selections (as with conditional fields), progressive forms display different or additional fields over multiple visits.

How Progressive Form Fields Work

When a form uses progressive fields, it places a cookie on the submitter’s browser during their first interaction. This cookie tracks the number of times they have loaded or submitted the form.

• First visit: Only a small number of fields are shown, focusing on basic information gathering.

• Subsequent visits: The form can reveal new fields to collect more detailed information without overwhelming the submitter on the first try.

• Pre-populated answers: Fields that were previously filled out by the user will be automatically populated with their earlier responses, creating a seamless experience.

In Delivra's Form Editor, progressive fields are configured by selecting a field then selecting 'Yes' under the Progressive Fields section, then simply selecting option for when the field should be displayed.

You can review detailed information about the cookies used for this functionality here.

Best Practices and Tips

• Prioritize important fields first: Start by asking for the most essential information during the first interaction.

• Build trust over time: Use progressive profiling to gradually request more detailed information as trust is built with your audience.

• Test for fallback behavior: Understand that if a submitter clears cookies, uses a private browsing session, or switches devices, the form may treat them as a new visitor.

• Update your cookie policy: Since progressive forms rely on browser cookies, it’s important to update your website’s cookie notice to inform visitors about this tracking.

Key Limitations

• Reliance on cookies: If cookies are blocked, deleted, or restricted (such as in certain browser settings or regulations like GDPR), the form may not recognize returning visitors and could reset to the initial view.

• Device-specific tracking: Progressive behavior is tracked per device and browser. Switching devices or browsers would create a new "first visit" from the system's perspective.

Practical Use Cases

• Lead Generation Forms: Ask for basic contact info first, then collect job titles or company details in later interactions.

• Customer Feedback Surveys: Start with a simple satisfaction rating, then progressively ask more detailed questions.

• Event Registrations: First capture registration basics, and in follow-ups collect session preferences or accommodation needs.
  

If you have any questions about setting up progressive form fields, please reach out to our Support team by emailing support@delivra.com. We’re happy to help!