Do forms follow function?

Forms are a great way to capture information from website users, right?

Umm, wrong. I have a client who sells a very high end landscaping service in London, and he doesn’t want me to include an enquiry form on his websites contact page.

In a way, I think he’s right. A homeowner with a big landscaping budget will probably have a very clear idea of what they want to achieve. They may not necessarily need guided through the process of asking for a quote. And forms are very impersonal, whereas an email is a great way to start a conversation.

I can also see some flaws with this line of thinking, notably:

• The existing ‘mailto’ link on the contact page is simply begging for spam abuse.
• Forms require input. If a form is well designed it cuts down on low quality enquiries by prompting users to input specific information.
• Forms provide ammunition. Everyone hates selling, but its easier to sell your services when you’re armed with clues to a prospects needs.

So, where does this leave website owners? Somewhere in the middle, I’d guess. If you can live with the spam, keep the mailto link. If you want the data, include a form. There are plenty of easy ways to get a form on your site. For WordPress users, cforms is the best of the best. For any other type of site, including WordPress, you really can’t beat Wufoo’s hosted forms service.

Or, add both and let your customers choose their preferred contact method.