Ask HN: How would you improve this simple web app?

#1

Post by kht786 » Fri, Nov 11, 2011, 5:33 PM UTC

FormBakery is a tool to create super simple forms for those of us who are less code-savvy. Its currently at: http://formbakery.com/beta/

The title says it all, how would you improve this application or the code it generates? What features would you like to see in FormBakery?

If you actually use FormBakery to bake a form, we would love to hear what you have to say. You can contact us at hello@formbakery.com

Re: Ask HN: How would you improve this simple web app?

#2

Post by pedalpete » Fri, Nov 11, 2011, 6:06 PM UTC

That is really cool. Very well done, great interface.

I think you need to up the contrast and provide a bit of direction.

First of all, it looks very washed out. I don't mean that you need huge bold colors, but it has a color scheme (or lack there of) which makes it difficult to pick out the objects. At the same time, I think you should stick with the simple design, just a bit of texturing and color I think would both improve the character, and even the usability (though I don't see how it could get much more usable).

Your product defines 'simply, awesome'! Congrats

Re: Ask HN: How would you improve this simple web app?

#3

Post by pdenya » Fri, Nov 11, 2011, 9:49 PM UTC

For the Form Name section either darken the text or change the selection color.

Add another Export button at the bottom and make it a bit brighter. Alternatively, fixed positioning would work.

overall: Nice tool, nice UI, good idea, poor color scheme.

Re: Ask HN: How would you improve this simple web app?

#4

Post by rpicard » Sat, Nov 12, 2011, 12:50 AM UTC

pedalpete wrote: post #2

That is really cool. Very well done, great interface. I think you need to up the contrast and provide a bit of direction. First of all, it looks very washed out. I don't mean that you need huge bold colors, but it has a color scheme (or lack there of) which makes it difficult to pick out the objects. At the same time, I think you should stick with the simple design, just a bit of texturing and color I think would bot…

This is what I was thinking. It's all just a little too bright for my taste so a little contrast would make a big difference. It took me a second to realize what I was supposed to do so maybe you could consider placing the "drag form elements here" box above the elements so that's the first thing the users see.

I think it's really cool that you provide the code for HTML, javascript, PHP, and CSS.

Re: Ask HN: How would you improve this simple web app?

#5

Post by thesash » Sat, Nov 12, 2011, 2:31 AM UTC

Love how simple it is, agree on the color scheme-- the yellow is hard on the eyes, "export" button lacks contrast.

What about adding a feature to dump the data into a google doc instead of sending an email?

Re: Ask HN: How would you improve this simple web app?

#6

Post by staunch » Sat, Nov 12, 2011, 3:38 AM UTC

- Don't generate code -- host the forms yourself. Otherwise all your users will ask for this constantly and you'll never make money. Compete with Wufoo.

- Color scheme literally hurts my eyes.

- Keep the front page something like this, let people dive right in.

- FormBakery is an okay name, but it's not awesome. You can probably do better, but don't let that slow you down.

- You're off to a great start. Keep going.

Re: Ask HN: How would you improve this simple web app?

#7

Post by gmichnikov » Sat, Nov 12, 2011, 10:30 PM UTC

Perhaps add some templates or examples to give a clear picture of what the output will be.

Re: Ask HN: How would you improve this simple web app?

#8

Post by kht786 » Sun, Nov 13, 2011, 11:29 AM UTC

Thanks guys for the positive criticism and encouragement. It certainly means a great deal!

I agree with the comments on poor contrast, especially on LCD monitors. That will need to be fixed.