How to Create an HTML Inspection Form On Notepad? A Step-by-step Guide

Master creating an HTML inspection form in Notepad with our complete guide. Learn step-by-step techniques for efficient form development.

Last Updated on February 19, 2024 by Ossian Muscad

Providing your inspection crew with a quick and convenient way to view and accomplish their inspection tasks should be one of your main priorities. By adding or creating an HTML form to your website, you can significantly boost the efficiency and performance of your inspection team. But how exactly can you create an HTML inspection form using Notepad? This article will outline the steps you need to take, so read on!

 

What is HTML?

HTML, or HyperText Markup Language, is the standard markup language used to create and design websites and webpages. It is the backbone of web content, providing structure and layout for text, images, multimedia elements, and more. HTML uses a system of tags (also known as elements) enclosed in angle brackets (e.g., <p> for paragraphs, <h1> for headings, and <a> for links) to define the structure and appearance of content on a webpage.

HTML works with CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) and JavaScript to create fully functional, interactive, and visually appealing websites. While HTML provides the structure and content, CSS handles styling and presentation, and JavaScript handles interactivity and dynamic content.

HTML 5 is the current version of HTML that’s used for most web pages to function correctly. If you’ve never done any coding before, note that HTML has a rather steep learning curve. However, if you do manage to learn HTML, it can be a valuable skill to have, especially for the following purposes:

  • Grow your email list
  • Capture leads
  • Boost overall sales
  • Improve your efficiency in accomplishing inspection tasks
  • Collect accurate data from your inspection crew
  • Provide customer support
  • And more!

 

How to Create an Inspection Form in HTML using Notepad

Providing your workers with easy-to-understand and straightforward inspection forms on your company website is essential for improving work efficiency, boosting overall cohesiveness, and creating a fluid and more synchronized work environment. That’s why you should consider making an inspection form in HTML using Notepad installed on your computer.

Running a business is hard work. So there are many things to do and so little time. So, let’s get straight to the point and share five essential steps to help you create an inspection form in HTML.

Step 1: Choose the Right HTML Editor

Keep in mind that hundreds of HTML editors are available on the market. Most of these tools offer very similar features. We don’t want to confuse you with all the intricate details. However, there are a few key elements that will make your life easier:

  • Error Detection: this feature highlights syntax errors automatically for more straightforward fixes.
  • Auto-completion: this feature suggests essential HTML elements according to your previous changes.
  • Syntax Highlights: this feature applies a distinct color to different HTML tags based on specific categories for easier code reading and sorting.
  • Search and Replace: this feature locates and overwrites all instances of a particular code instead of editing each code individually.

 

If you’re starting to get deep into coding, there are other features that you should worry about. However, the features mentioned above should be more than enough to cover you when creating an inspection form.

The application you select is a matter of personal preference. For instance, if you want something to use in your browser, you can use Codeped. How about something that’s more barebone? Try Notepad++. Are you more of a minimalist and prefer a more intuitive UI? Sublime Text is the best option. If you want something clear and simple, the standard Notepad is ideal.

No matter what HTML editor you choose, keep in mind that they offer the same output, which is creating an inspection form for your company. So choose which suits you best and move on to the next step.

Step 2: Create Your HTML File

The next step is creating your HTML file on your chosen editor. You can create and save a new film using the “.html” extension.

For example, “myinspectionform.html.” When you signpost to the editor that you’re using to create your HTML code, it should automatically generate the following code for you:

<!DOCTYPE html>

<html>

<head>

<title></title>

</head>

<body>

</body>

</html>

Note that not all editors have autofill. If the one you chose doesn’t have autofill, copy and paste the code above, and it will have the same effect.

Step 3: Add Text Fields and Create Your Form

Now that you’ve got the essential elements going, it’s time to add other pieces of your code and turn these barebones into an actual inspection form.

Are you only here for the code? That’s okay! You will find everything you need right below this one. So feel free to skip this part. But if you want to learn more about the code you’re entering, here’s a quick HTML tutorial.

A form created via HTML is made up of “form elements.” These elements include radio buttons, text boxes, dropdown menus, and checkboxes that allow people to view and interact with your inspection form.

Every element you add has its specific tag. For instance, the HTML tag ‘<form>’ defines your code as a form. On the other hand, ‘<textarea>’ is for user inputs. Keep in mind that these elements always come in pairs. Every tag you include must be inserted in between the open (e.g., <form>) and closed (</form>) tags. 

Now that you’re aware of tags and how they work, here’s the code that you’re going to input into your HTML editor:

<!DOCTYPE html>

<html> <head> <h1> Company Inspection Form </ h1> 

</head> 

<body> 

<form> 

<table> <tr> <td> Name: </td> <td> <input type=”text” name=””> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>Department: </td> </tr> </table> 

</form> 

</body> 

</html>

The output of this basic HTML code will display the text “Company Inspection Form” at the top with form fields “Name” and “Department” at the bottom. It’s not the best, but it shows you the basic building blocks you need to know to create a better and more complete inspection form later.

The ‘<tr>’ tag commands it to arrange the response in a row, while the ‘<td>’ tag indicates that you want to capture whatever the respondents type. For this example, we added two fields for simplicity:

  1. Enter Name.
  2. Enter Department

 

You can add more fields as you wish. Input types can range from numbers and dates to colors or graphic images. Copy the code shown below and insert the input types that you want.

<tr> <td> Email Address: </td> <td> <input type=”text” email=””> </td>

NOTE: Choosing the correct input type is crucial. It commands how the text should be displayed on the screen.

Step 4: Add Placeholders

A placeholder text is found inside your form fields that prompts respondents to answer in a particular way. It’s primarily used as a ‘nudge’ in the right direction. However, it’s also a useful strategy to make forms more engaging. 

For example, in the name form field, you can type a simple “insert name” and do it. But if you want to spruce things up, write something like “Clark Kent” to add some flair. Whatever strategy you go for, adding placeholders to your HTML registration form is simple. 

Congratulations! You’ve just created a simple inspection form using HTML. Use your acquired knowledge and add more elements to your inspection form.

Step 5: Preview and Save Your Form

Before you finalize your form, you should always preview it to check if everything is in order. If something doesn’t look right, go back to your HTML editor and make the necessary changes until you’re satisfied. Once you’re done, save your form with a unique name so that you can easily find it again. You’ve officially created an inspection form using HTML! Now, you can share it with your colleagues or upload it to your website.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why HTML isn’t recommended for creating inspection forms

While it is possible (as evident in this quick guide), creating an inspection form using HTML is impractical. You can use many other options in creating your HTML inspection form. Different productivity apps available online, like DataMyte Digital Clipboard, can help simplify the entire process and provide a better experience to inspectors (more about DATAMYTE later).

Q2: Why is an HTML form the last thing you should consider

While learning how to code and create a basic inspection form is a fun skill to pick up, you should reconsider using them for any critical purpose. Sure, it’s great. But it’s not worth the time, effort, and frustration, especially when you have other things to do for your business. When you need an inspection form for your inspectors, any solution created from HTML will look unpolished. In addition, the output will also look unprofessional if you don’t have prior coding skills. 

Q3: What should I use instead of an HTML form?

Instead of using an HTML form, you can use a digital inspection platform. This type of software allows you to create customized inspection forms without needing any coding knowledge. It also offers useful features such as offline data collection, real-time reporting, and easy data analysis. Using a digital inspection platform will save you time and effort in creating and managing your inspection forms.

Q4: Can I use HTML for other purposes aside from creating inspection forms?

Yes, you can use HTML to create websites, online forms, and other types of documents. It is one of the basic coding languages used in web development and is still widely used today. However, creating professional and practical inspection forms is not the recommended option. Consider using a digital inspection platform instead for better results. So, go ahead and try your hand at coding if you’re curious. But remember that there are more efficient and convenient options available for creating an effective inspection form.

Q5: Where can I learn more about HTML and coding in general?

There are many online resources available for learning HTML and other coding languages. You can start with free tutorials on websites like W3Schools, Codecademy, or Khan Academy. For a more structured and comprehensive course, you can also enroll in online courses from Udemy or Coursera. Remember to practice consistently and continuously challenge yourself to improve your skills. Who knows, you might discover a new passion for coding along the way! Keep exploring and learning new things; there’s always something more to discover in the world of coding.

Q6: Should I use a template or create my own HTML form?

Both options have their pros and cons. Using a premade template can save you time and effort, but it may not be as customizable to fit your specific needs. On the other hand, creating your own HTML form allows you complete control over its design and features, but it requires more coding knowledge and takes longer to create. Ultimately, the decision depends on your preferences and needs. Consider trying out both options to see which works best for you.

 

Create and Streamline Digital Inspection Forms with DATAMYTE

DATAMYTE is a quality management platform with low-code capabilities. Our Digital Clipboard, in particular, is a low-code workflow automation software that features a workflow, checklist, and smart form builder. This tool lets you create and streamline customized digital inspection forms without any coding knowledge.

DATAMYTE also lets you conduct layered process audits, a high-frequency evaluation of critical process steps, focusing on areas with the highest failure risk or non-compliance. Conducting LPA with DATAMYTE lets you effectively identify and correct potential defects before they become major quality issues.

With DATAMYTE, you have an all-in-one solution for your quality management needs. Our platform allows you to create, distribute, and gather data from customized digital inspection forms effortlessly. Book a demo now to learn more.

 

Conclusion

While HTML offers a foundational understanding of web forms and online document structure, its application for creating inspection forms in a professional context is limited. Modern needs demand more sophisticated, user-friendly, and efficient tools for data collection and management. While coding skills can be an asset in various digital endeavors, for inspection forms specifically, opting for dedicated platforms that require less technical knowledge for operation and offer advanced data management capabilities is a practical and time-saving choice. Embrace the digital transformation by leveraging the right tools that streamline the process and enhance the quality of your operations.

 

 

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