Forms, forms, forms. Who likes ’em?

Well, many nonprofits find them extremely helpful in a variety of ways, from fundraising to recruiting volunteers, and many potential donors and volunteers are finding that they are quite willing to fill out forms online, even with mobile devices.

Speaking during the 2015 National Catholic Development Conference (NCDC) Conference and Exposition, representatives of MobileCause said that there are many possible ways to utilize mobile-friendly online forms, including signing up volunteers, surveying donors, getting petition support and collecting membership dues. And that might be just the beginning in the cyber-age.

Non-payment forms are one of the best ways to build a database of potential donors. With just a few taps or clicks on a smartphone, tablet or keyboard, people anywhere can get connected. Data is collected in real time for CRM integration, and organizations can automate text message and email follow-up.

The following are the keys to success when putting mobile-friendly online forms to work.

Customize all fields on the organization’s form.

Embed forms on the organization’s website.

Link directly to forms from emails, texts and social media posts.

Use keywords and shortlinks for easy in-person participation.

Use for workplace giving.