Editing Forms with Custom Objects (section)

== How to Build Forms with Custom Objects ==

Forms with Custom Objects in ActiveCampaign allow users to collect specific data types related to their unique business needs. By integrating '''custom object fields''' into inline forms, you can enhance contact records with detailed information that is relevant to your operations. This capability becomes crucial for businesses looking to tailor their engagement and manage data effectively.

=== Why This Matters ===
Utilizing custom objects in your forms allows you to gather targeted data directly from your audience. This not only enhances the information stored in your contact records but also enables personalized interactions and better segmentation of your contacts. The ability to collect this information streamlines your processes and helps in leveraging insights for marketing campaigns or customer relationship management.

=== How to Access This Feature ===
To access the feature of creating forms with custom objects, ensure that you have created a custom object schema either through the '''Manage Data''' page in your ActiveCampaign account or using the ActiveCampaign API. This step is essential for utilizing custom objects in your forms.

=== Step-by-Step Instructions ===
To effectively build forms with custom objects, follow these steps:

# **Create a custom object template** or schema. Refer to the [Custom Object Template Guide](https://developers.activecampaign.com/reference/custom-object-schemas) for assistance in this process.
# In your ActiveCampaign account, navigate to the **Website** section to create or update a form.
# Select the form you wish to edit or opt to create a new form. For more details, refer to the [Form Creation Guide](https://help.activecampaign.com/hc/en-us/articles/115000844344).
# The right sidebar within the form builder will present all fields that can be added to your form. This includes fields associated with the custom objects you created in step 1.
# Drag the custom object field(s) into the form builder. Remember, it is necessary to include all required custom object fields as specified in the schema.
# Required fields are outlined within your custom object schema. Ensure compliance to avoid submission errors.
# Once you finish creating the form, click the '''Integrate''' button.
# Utilize any of the available integration options to publish your form.

=== Configuration Options and Settings ===
When building forms with custom objects, consider the following configuration options:

* **Custom Object Fields**: Ensure that you incorporate the relevant fields as per your schema.
* **Required Fields**: Review your custom object schema to confirm which fields must be included in the form for successful submissions.

These options are essential to ensure that data is correctly captured and associated with the relevant contact records.

=== Best Practices and Tips ===
1. Before starting, ensure you have a well-defined custom object schema that suits your data collection needs.
2. Regularly check your forms to update or remove any custom object fields that may no longer be relevant, especially if you have deleted any custom object schemas, as this could cause submission issues.
3. Test the form thoroughly before publication to ensure that all fields collect data as expected and that integration settings are correctly configured.
4. Consider integrating your forms with other platforms or tools to enhance data utilization for marketing and user engagement.

=== Common Use Cases with Examples ===
- **Event Registrations**: If your business hosts events, use '''custom object fields''' to collect specific attendee information, such as dietary preferences or breakout session choices.
- **Product Feedback**: Capture user feedback relevant to a specific product through tailored fields, allowing for in-depth analysis of customer satisfaction.

=== Troubleshooting Section ===
- If you encounter submission errors, review the custom object fields on your form to ensure all required fields as defined in your schema are present.
- Check that the custom object schema you created is not deleted to avoid loss of associated fields.
- If a form is not publishing correctly, review your integration settings and ensure that there are no conflicts with existing forms or configurations.

=== Related Features ===
- For more information on creating and optimizing forms, see the following:
  * [[Forms]]
  * [[Custom Objects]]

=== FAQ ===
'''Q1: What are custom objects, and how do they differ from regular fields?'''
A1: Custom objects are unique data entities that allow businesses to track specific data points related to their operations, unlike standard fields which are predefined and limited to generic information.

'''Q2: Can I create multiple custom object schemas?'''
A2: Yes, you can create multiple custom object schemas in your ActiveCampaign account to cater to various data collection needs.

'''Q3: Is there a limit to the number of custom object fields I can add to a form?'''
A3: While there is no specific limit mentioned, it is advisable to keep forms concise and relevant to user experience.

'''Q4: What happens if I delete a custom object schema?'''
A4: If a custom object schema is deleted, you will not be able to use the related fields in forms, which might lead to submission errors if those fields are still present in your forms.

'''Q5: How can I ensure data privacy regarding the information collected through custom objects?'''
A5: Always adhere to data protection regulations and ensure that your privacy policy is updated to inform users about how their data will be used.

'''Q6: Can I integrate custom object forms with other applications?'''
A6: Yes, ActiveCampaign offers multiple integration options that allow you to connect forms with other applications and streamline your data workflow.

'''Q7: How can I verify if the form submissions are being captured correctly?'''
A7: After publishing, test the form yourself and check the contact records to confirm that data is correctly collected and associated with each submission.

By following the above guidelines, you can effectively use forms with custom objects in ActiveCampaign to enhance your data collection processes and improve customer engagement.
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