Introduction to Forms in Labhandy
Forms in Labhandy are built by designing protocols in Labguru and tagging them for mobile access. Each protocol in Labguru must include a Form element, which defines input fields for structured data entry. Upon submission, a new experiment is automatically created. Forms seamlessly sync with Labguru, enabling users to efficiently enter and submit data directly from their mobile devices.
Best Practices for Using Submit Forms in Labhandy
Submit Forms in Labhandy are designed to enhance workflow efficiency, particularly for structured and repetitive tasks. To maximize their effectiveness, consider the following best practices when creating or modifying forms in your Labguru account:
1. Optimize for Repetitive Workflows
Submit Forms are best suited for tasks that follow a defined sequence of steps. These may include:
Daily or routine experiments requiring consistent data entry.
Quality control checks where structured inputs ensure accuracy.
Inventory or sample tracking for materials requiring frequent updates.
Data collection for research studies with standardized input fields.
2. Adapt for Remote & Controlled Environments
Labhandy is particularly useful for tasks performed outside traditional lab settings. Design forms that accommodate:
Greenhouses & outdoor research – Record environmental data, sample conditions, and real-time observations.
Clean rooms & aseptic environments – Ensure compliance by documenting procedural steps without needing physical paperwork.
Confined spaces – Use mobile devices for logging data in hard-to-reach areas where laptops are impractical.
Fieldwork & on-site inspections – Enter and submit real-time data for studies conducted in remote locations.
So let's get started, how do we build an efficient protocol that would be available as a form for use?
How do we design a form that will be available on Labhandy
1. In order to view and use a form in Labhandy application, start with a protocol and Tag it with the 'Labhandy' Tag in your Labguru account
(one word, not case sensitive)
2.Insert a form element into the selected protocol and build a form template that will consist of all needed input fields for the data entry .
Only protocols that have been built using a Form element and tagged will be available on Labhandy.
Currently we support first form element in the page, additional form elements on the page will not be used in Labhandy.
3. The input Field Name will be presented as a placeholder, suggesting to the user what data should be entered into the form field.
In the image below you can see an example of a “Daily calibration” form.
The first field (on the top left) is of the ‘Equipment select’ type, which allows you to add equipment from your account to the form.
4. All form fields in the form element will be “required” by default (only within Labhandy) even if they were not marked as such during the field creation.
To learn more about Labhandy or protocol creation see the article below