Webforms are natural growth drivers for websites. Your website’s conversion rate can be greatly improved using the appropriate forms. On the surface, they appear to be a straightforward component of inbound marketing but have the potential to boost flat conversion rates. But when it comes to creating a new form, there is a frequent discussion on whether to use single-step or multi-step forms.
The single-step form presents everything at once. Alternatively, a multi-step form divides the material into manageable chunks. So, let’s first understand the fundamentals.
To assist you in choosing which type to utilize, we will discuss the advantages of both forms.
Single vs. Multi-Step Form
A contact form aims at gathering information from website visitors and eventually turning them into prospective clients. On the other hand, visitors want to reach their objective with the least amount of time and effort when completing the form.
However, let’s face the truth: you need these contact forms for various reasons. We’ll explain which to select according to your needs.
Single-Step Forms
These are the most typical forms that we encounter online. They range from the login form to the support or the contact form. Single-step options that focus on short actions are standard on the Internet. Facebook and thousands of other websites require your email and password. Single-step forms are the most effective for collecting the necessary data. Asking for the user’s data when you only want them to sign up for the newsletter is unnecessary.
When to use single-step forms
Single-step forms can produce better outcomes than multi-step forms for a first-time visitor who may become a potential buyer. Users shouldn’t be confused by the initial appearance. You should provide them with enough space to feel comfortable, and it should start with a simple form.
According to Neil Patel’s study, having only three form fields generate a 25% conversion rate, three to five fields provide 20%, and more than six fields reduce the percentage to 15%. Thus, the shorter the better when it comes to form fields.
Reasons to use a single-step form:
- When you require users’ basic data.
- If you’re launching a completely new service.
- To display a compelling offer that needs an email address verification.
Multi-Step Forms
Due to their design and process, multi-step forms are practical as they divide the form into several simple fragments. Once a customer starts filling out the form, they are more likely to finish it and less likely to withdraw if any sensitive information is requested. Completing the entire form is easy for users because they’re determined to finish the procedure.
When to use multi-step forms
According to the studies, multi-step forms are completed 14% more often than single-step forms. In fact, many users who abandoned the form during the first phase often return to complete it. Longer forms call for helpful information that individuals are willing to share.
Complex forms are useful when you want to collect a lot of data. But remember that it might be challenging to comprehend several form fields on the same page. By including more pages on the form, you may solve this problem. This will increase the chances of your potential customers finishing the form without abandoning the webpage.
Reasons to use a multi-step form
- If you wish to gather primary user data first and payment information afterward.
- For gathering billing data from an online store.
- If there is a job application form, it requires a lot of information.
- To fill out forms so users can contact you for additional information.
Conclusion
Your forms could be better suited to the multi-step procedure if you run an e-commerce site, encounter abandoned carts frequently, or discover that your clients stop filling in the payment details. The same principle applies if you want to avoid overwhelming your consumers with a single-page form but still require much additional information from them.
On the other hand, single-step forms are a much better choice if your forms serve mainly for gathering basic contact information or obtaining subscribers for a service or special offer. They’re the ideal option for rapid conversions that only demand a little effort from your potential customers because they’re quick to complete and simple to create.
