Toplevel helps customers publish even more powerful,
easier-to-use online forms

Creating simple-to-use online forms for even the most complicated services has just got easier with the latest version of Toplevel Computing's Online Application solutions.

New versions of Toplevel's OfficeForms and OfficeProcess include improved support for translating forms into multiple languages, a faster, more interactive user interface for forms, and support for co-browsing to enable staff to help citizens or colleagues to complete forms.

Quick and easy multi-language support

Toplevel's customers will now find it much easier to publish forms in multiple languages. Translators can quickly and easily link their translations to specific elements on the form, immediately creating a language-specific version of the form as they type their translations. At the same time, a central dictionary captures translations so that commonly-used words and phrases can be automatically translated on other forms. Together, these features cut the time, effort and cost involved in providing support for multiple languages.

"We put our current programme application process online in English and Welsh." said Ivan Salcedo, Head of Creative Services at NESTA. "The system was simple to use and worked well. It builds up a central dictionary of translations which has the potential to save us a lot of effort in publishing online application forms in multiple languages in the future."

Sophisticated functions without programming

Form designers without programming skills can also now create forms with advanced features that make it easier for users to fill them out. Such feature includes instant validation when users tab to the next field, immediate calculations once users have entered all the necessary values, and more intelligent handling of "timeouts", by detecting that users are still working, even if they haven't submitted any data for some time.

These features are being delivered through pioneering use of AJAX technology, and Toplevel has recently applied for a US patent covering these innovative techniques. "This is another example of the way Toplevel is using the best of leading-edge technologies to deliver sophisticated yet easy-to-use solutions to our customers," says Toplevel Technical Director Stephen Brimley. "These tools allow our customers to create faster, more intelligent and richer user interfaces without needing specialist programming knowledge."

Co-browsing offers a friendly hand

In addition, a new co-browsing facility in OfficeForms and OfficeProcess allows two people to view the same form, and to see what has already been filled out on the form so far, even if they are not in the same room. This allows staff to guide citizens or colleagues as they answer the questions on the form, giving advice and clarification to ensure the right information is entered. Co-browsing will also allow staff to help less confident web users take advantage of online applications.

"Taken together, these enhancements focus on helping our customers improve the user experience for their users, so that filling out even complex forms becomes straightforward," explains Jane Roberts, Toplevel Sales & Marketing Director. "Version 8 of OfficeForms and OfficeProcess continues Toplevel's tradition of delivering solutions that help customers drive take-up of their online services and maximise the return on their investment."

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