Using Templates vs. Creating Forms From Scratch

📄 Using Templates vs. Creating Forms From Scratch
 

When creating forms in Ontraccr, you have two main options: start from a blank slate or build from a template. This guide breaks down the pros, cons, and use cases for both—plus how to access either option.

🎯 What You’ll Learn

• The difference between templates and scratch-built forms
• When to use each method
• How to access and customize both

🧱 Option 1: Create a Form From Scratch

🔹 Use This When:

• You have a very specific or unique process to document
• No existing template fits your needs
• You want full control over structure and content

🧭 Steps:

• Navigate to the Forms Templates Library — Documents → Forms → Templates
• Click Add +
• Type in a name for your new form
• Choose a form type
• Select a division (if applicable)
• Configure Automatically Collected Data & Form Options settings accordingly
• Configure Step 2: Fields, Step 3: Workflow, & Step 4: PDF Designer to be consistent with the form’s desired outcome

🛠 Advantages:

• 100% customizable
• Ideal for niche workflows or company-specific processes

🧱 Limitations:

• Slightly more time-consuming to build
• No sample content or workflow included

📚 Option 2: Use a Template From the Ontraccr Library

🔹 Use This When:

• You want a fast, prebuilt starting point
• You're working with common industry forms (e.g., safety inspections, change orders)
• You want to see best practices in action

🧭 Steps:

1. Go to Documents → Forms → Templates
2. Click the ➕ Add button
3. Choose Import from Form Library
4. Browse the list of available templates
5. Click any template to see:
   • A summary of what the form is for
   • Instructions on how to use/customize it
   • A sample PDF output
   • A sample workflow

Once imported, you can fully customize the template (fields, workflows, etc.) just like a scratch-built form.

🛠 Advantages:

• Fast setup
• Built-in examples, workflows, and formatting
• Less risk of missing key form components

📌 Limitations:

• Some template structures may require tweaks to match your processes

🧠 Pro Tip: Combine Both Methods

Start with a template, then strip out anything you don’t need—or add custom sections and logic to make it yours.