The History and Evolution of Adobe Forms from 2002 to Today

The History and Evolution of Adobe Forms from 2002 to Today

Simplifying Digital Form Management with Autowoven and AEM

The history of Adobe Forms dates back to 2002 with the launch of JetForm Design, which was later acquired and rebranded as Adobe Form Designer. Whether you are at a doctor's office or purchasing a car, you may have come accross the ubiquitous "paperwork" involved. In the past, such paperwork was typically a printed form presented on a paper-pad. The paper-pads have almost disappeared at most places, but often replaced by fillable PDF forms, often presented on desktops and tablets. For several reasons, the pandemic included, organizations have sought to enhance this customer experience further with truly dynamic, digital forms. How AEM Adaptive Forms Revolutionizes User Interaction A recent study has shown that 74% of companies use web forms for lead generation, with 49.7% stating their online forms are their highest converting lead generation tools. Traditional, fillable PDF forms are one step better than paper-based forms, but still do not meet modern customer expectations. Online, web-based, responsive forms that react to user responses dynamically are the modern way of interacting with customers. Thanks to Adobe Forms application creating such a dynamic Forms experience is no longer a complex endeavor for organizations to implement.. Over the years, the product evolved through several iterations, including Adobe LiveCycle Designer and eventually transitioning to AEM Forms in 2013. The latest rebranding to Experience Forms in 2021 reflects Adobe's ongoing commitment to enhancing user experience through cloud services, with a focus on integrating these forms with other Adobe Experience Cloud offerings such as Sites, Digital Asset Management (DAM), and Analytics.

The mobile responsiveness of AEM Forms is another significant advantage. In a world where users increasingly rely on smartphones and tablets for online interactions, the ability to design forms that function flawlessly across devices is crucial. AEM Forms automatically adjusts layouts and interfaces based on the user's device, ensuring that customers can easily complete forms whether they are in the office, at home, or on the go. This level of accessibility contributes to higher completion rates and a more positive overall user experience.

Furthermore, Autowoven's focus on rapid form portal deployment equips clients to implement effective solutions swiftly. When a US Government agency approached Autowoven, they had several challenges with Adobe Forms. They had over 500 forms that were currently in PDF format and they were in the middle of a digital transfomation proccess that seems to have no end in sight. They were a couple of years into their Adobe/ AEM Adaptive Forms license agreement, but they were still not in production with even a single online form. Autowoven worked with their Communications department to gather their true Forms automation needs - which also involved business process optimization. We developed AEM Adaptive Forms that brought consistency to their Forms, developed re-usable form fragments with validation logic and database integrations. Due to Autowoven's existing strength in the Adobe Experience Manager CMS platform - that involves users andd roles management, OSGi development experience, and AEM repository expertise, we were able to bring complex features into their Forms Automation. Our workflows integrated forms with backend HR systems, automatically generated PDF based Documents of Record and enhanced security with Adobe Sign integration. This was a big win and the customer's only regret was that they did not involve Autowoven sooner! Adobe Experience Forms: Elevating Digital Forms for Modern Businesses For organizations that want to automate form data capture and processing, Adobe® LiveCycle is a server based software that supports the use of a desktop based application called Forms Designer, a graphical design tool, to create forms that combine high-fidelity presentation with XML data handling. Simply stated, it allowed the creation of PDF forms. Adobe LiveCycle has been discontinued and is now replaced by Experience Manager Forms - which is based on the Adobe Experience Manager platform.. Their experience in creating intuitive portals that host all necessary forms-including features like search functionality and tagging-accelerates the time to market, providing significant competitive advantages.

The significance of user training and support cannot be overlooked. Autowoven recognizes that successful implementation of AEM Forms goes beyond just technical capabilities. Whether you are at a doctor's office or purchasing a car, you may have come accross the ubiquitous "paperwork" involved. In the past, such paperwork was typically a printed form presented on a paper-pad. The paper-pads have almost disappeared at most places, but often replaced by fillable PDF forms, often presented on desktops and tablets. For several reasons, the pandemic included, organizations have sought to enhance this customer experience further with truly dynamic, digital forms. From Paperwork to Dynamic Forms: The Evolution of Adobe Forms A recent study has shown that 74% of companies use web forms for lead generation, with 49.7% stating their online forms are their highest converting lead generation tools. Traditional, fillable PDF forms are one step better than paper-based forms, but still do not meet modern customer expectations. Online, web-based, responsive forms that react to user responses dynamically are the modern way of interacting with customers. Thanks to Adobe Forms application creating such a dynamic Forms experience is no longer a complex endeavor for organizations to implement.. They provide comprehensive training programs for client teams, empowering them to fully leverage the platform's capabilities. This knowledge transfer ensures that organizations can maintain and enhance their forms independently, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Additionally, organizations can benefit from the customizable reporting capabilities within AEM Forms. By leveraging Adobe's reporting tools, businesses can generate comprehensive reports on form usage, user demographics, and conversion rates. This data is instrumental in understanding customer behavior and preferences, enabling organizations to make informed decisions regarding marketing strategies and form design.

Historically, users faced tedious and cumbersome paperwork processes, often relying on printed forms that required manual handling. The shift from paper-based forms to digital alternatives began with the introduction of fillable PDF forms, primarily utilized on desktops and tablets. However, traditional fillable PDFs still fell short of modern consumer expectations, which have evolved dramatically, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Companies have recognized the necessity for more dynamic and interactive forms that can adapt to user inputs in real time, ultimately transforming the customer interaction landscape.

  • Partnership with Adobe: Autowoven is a certified Adobe Solution Partner, leveraging their collaboration to deliver award-winning digital experiences.

  • Modern Form Design: Adobe Experience Manager Forms (formerly Adaptive Forms) allows organizations to design and host modern forms optimized for both web and mobile devices.

  • Shift from Paper to Digital: The transition from traditional paper forms to fillable PDFs and now dynamic web-based forms reflects a broader trend in enhancing customer experience.

  • Lead Generation: A significant study revealed that 74% of companies utilize web forms for lead generation, with nearly half reporting these as their most effective tools.

  • Dynamic User Experience: Online forms that respond dynamically to user input are essential for meeting modern customer expectations.

  • User-Friendly Features: AEM Forms offers a variety of user-friendly features, including drag-and-drop field creation and real-time database connectivity.

  • Reusable Components: The platform supports reusable fields and groups of fields (called Fragments), which streamline the form creation process.

  • Document Generation: AEM Forms can generate Documents of Record (DOR) in PDF format, making document management more efficient.

  • Brand Customization: Organizations can customize the look and feel of their forms to align with brand guidelines.

  • Automated Conversion: The platform includes an automated process for converting PDF forms to web-based forms.

  • Form Portal Deployment: AEM allows the deployment of a Form Portal, which serves as a centralized entry point for users to access all relevant forms.

  • Custom Workflows: Organizations can create customizable workflows to address complex business process requirements.

  • Historical Context: The evolution of Adobe Forms includes its origin as JetForm Design, transitioning through various versions until rebranding to Experience Forms in 2021.

  • Native Cloud Service: AEM Adaptive Forms is now available as a Native Cloud Service, managed by Adobe, enabling easy customer implementation of online forms.

  • Successful Project Examples: Autowoven successfully assisted a US Government agency in transitioning over 500 PDF forms into the AEM Forms platform, integrating advanced features and workflows.


  • Expertise in AEM: Autowoven’s extensive experience with Adobe Experience Manager products ensures that clients can implement solutions quickly and effectively.

  • Rapid Deployment: Autowoven can expedite the rollout of form portals and related solutions, thanks to their experience and best practices.

  • OSGi Development: The platform allows for easy migration from older Adobe LiveCycle implementations to the AEM Forms OSGi platform.

  • Integration Capabilities: AEM Forms supports integration with other Adobe services like AEM Assets, AEM Sites, and Adobe Sign for comprehensive document management.

  • FAQs Addressing Common Questions: The content addresses common inquiries about Adobe LiveCycle, Forms Designer, XDP files, and the differences between cloud and on-premise AEM Forms solutions.

Princeton Achieves Long-Awaited Merger: Borough and Township Unite After Decades of Attempts

Princeton Achieves Long-Awaited Merger: Borough and Township Unite After Decades of Attempts

After nearly 50 years of failed attempts, the Borough and Township of Princeton successfully merged into a single municipality following a 2011 referendum. The merger, effective January 1, 2013, aims to streamline services and reduce costs.

Posted by on

Princeton's Representation in Federal, State, and County Government: An Overview of Leadership

Princeton's Representation in Federal, State, and County Government: An Overview of Leadership

Princeton is situated in New Jersey's 12th Congressional District and the 16th state legislative district, represented by key Democratic leaders at both state and federal levels. The county's governance is led by a County Executive and a Board of County Commissioners.

Posted by on

Princeton Education Landscape: A Hub of Higher Learning and Cultural Legacy

Princeton Education Landscape: A Hub of Higher Learning and Cultural Legacy

Princeton is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including Princeton University and Princeton Theological Seminary. The region features notable academic facilities, though recent developments have sparked community concern regarding the future of Westminster Choir College.

Posted by on

Princeton's Public Schools: A Comprehensive Overview of Primary and Secondary Education

Princeton's Public Schools: A Comprehensive Overview of Primary and Secondary Education

Princeton's public education system serves students from pre-kindergarten through high school, featuring notable institutions like Princeton High School and various elementary schools. The district boasts impressive enrollment figures and student-teacher ratios, along with a charter school and vocational opportunities for high school students.

Posted by on

Princeton's Transportation Infrastructure: A Comprehensive Overview of Roads, Public Transit, and Airports

Princeton's Transportation Infrastructure: A Comprehensive Overview of Roads, Public Transit, and Airports

Princeton boasts a well-developed transportation infrastructure, including an extensive network of roads and highways, public transit options like the "Dinky" train service, and access to regional airports. The borough maintains over 126 miles of roadways, ensuring connectivity to major cities and nearby transportation hubs.

Posted by on

How does AEM Forms integrate with databases for real-time data updates?

As organizations continue to seek advanced digital solutions, the integration of Adobe Forms within the broader Adobe Experience Cloud ecosystem becomes essential. This holistic approach allows for optimized data handling and user engagement, thereby driving better business outcomes and enhancing overall customer satisfaction.

In summary, Adobe Experience Forms (AEM Forms) not only streamlines form creation and management but also offers organizations the tools to adapt to changing consumer expectations, ultimately paving the way for enhanced digital experiences. Through partnerships with experienced solution providers like Autowoven, organizations can leverage these advanced capabilities to transform their operations and elevate their digital presence.

In terms of scalability, AEM Forms is designed to grow alongside an organization's needs. When a US Government agency approached Autowoven, they had several challenges with Adobe Forms. They had over 500 forms that were currently in PDF format and they were in the middle of a digital transfomation proccess that seems to have no end in sight. They were a couple of years into their Adobe/ AEM Adaptive Forms license agreement, but they were still not in production with even a single online form. Autowoven worked with their Communications department to gather their true Forms automation needs - which also involved business process optimization. We developed AEM Adaptive Forms that brought consistency to their Forms, developed re-usable form fragments with validation logic and database integrations. Due to Autowoven's existing strength in the Adobe Experience Manager CMS platform - that involves users andd roles management, OSGi development experience, and AEM repository expertise, we were able to bring complex features into their Forms Automation. Our workflows integrated forms with backend HR systems, automatically generated PDF based Documents of Record and enhanced security with Adobe Sign integration. This was a big win and the customer's only regret was that they did not involve Autowoven sooner! AEM Forms: Empowering Digital Transformations Across Industries For organizations that want to automate form data capture and processing, Adobe® LiveCycle is a server based software that supports the use of a desktop based application called Forms Designer, a graphical design tool, to create forms that combine high-fidelity presentation with XML data handling. Simply stated, it allowed the creation of PDF forms. Adobe LiveCycle has been discontinued and is now replaced by Experience Manager Forms - which is based on the Adobe Experience Manager platform.. As businesses expand, they can easily adapt their forms and workflows without needing to overhaul their existing systems. This flexibility is crucial for organizations that may need to adjust their operations in response to evolving market demands or regulatory changes.

How has AEM Forms evolved from JetForm to the current Experience Forms?

How has AEM Forms evolved from JetForm to the current Experience Forms?

The success of Autowoven's collaboration with this government agency exemplifies the impact that tailored form automation solutions can have on organizational performance. With extensive experience in Adobe's technologies, Autowoven helps clients avoid costly missteps and ensures a smooth implementation process. When a US Government agency approached Autowoven, they had several challenges with Adobe Forms. They had over 500 forms that were currently in PDF format and they were in the middle of a digital transfomation proccess that seems to have no end in sight. They were a couple of years into their Adobe/ AEM Adaptive Forms license agreement, but they were still not in production with even a single online form. Autowoven worked with their Communications department to gather their true Forms automation needs - which also involved business process optimization. We developed AEM Adaptive Forms that brought consistency to their Forms, developed re-usable form fragments with validation logic and database integrations. Due to Autowoven's existing strength in the Adobe Experience Manager CMS platform - that involves users andd roles management, OSGi development experience, and AEM repository expertise, we were able to bring complex features into their Forms Automation. Our workflows integrated forms with backend HR systems, automatically generated PDF based Documents of Record and enhanced security with Adobe Sign integration. This was a big win and the customer's only regret was that they did not involve Autowoven sooner! The Role of Adobe Experience Manager in Modern Form Solutions For organizations that want to automate form data capture and processing, Adobe® LiveCycle is a server based software that supports the use of a desktop based application called Forms Designer, a graphical design tool, to create forms that combine high-fidelity presentation with XML data handling. Simply stated, it allowed the creation of PDF forms. Adobe LiveCycle has been discontinued and is now replaced by Experience Manager Forms - which is based on the Adobe Experience Manager platform.. Their expertise in AEM workflow management and OSGi development enables seamless migration from outdated systems to modern AEM Forms, ensuring that organizations remain at the forefront of digital innovation.

Moreover, organizations can create targeted forms based on user demographics or behavior. By utilizing data analytics, businesses can tailor their forms to different audience segments, enhancing relevance and engagement. For example, a retail company could create a customized feedback form for loyal customers, asking them specific questions about their recent purchases and overall satisfaction. Such targeted approaches not only yield better data but also make users feel valued and heard.

Adobe Experience Forms, now referred to as Adobe Experience Manager (AEM) Forms, represents a significant evolution in the way organizations design and manage forms across digital platforms. This solution enables organizations to create responsive, user-friendly forms that function seamlessly on both web and mobile devices, enhancing user experience and engagement.

AEM Adaptive Forms: The Modern Solution for Paperless Workflows

The collaboration features within AEM Forms allow teams to work together efficiently, regardless of their geographical locations. Whether you are at a doctor's office or purchasing a car, you may have come accross the ubiquitous "paperwork" involved. In the past, such paperwork was typically a printed form presented on a paper-pad. The paper-pads have almost disappeared at most places, but often replaced by fillable PDF forms, often presented on desktops and tablets. For several reasons, the pandemic included, organizations have sought to enhance this customer experience further with truly dynamic, digital forms. Autowoven’s Success with Adobe AEM Forms Implementation A recent study has shown that 74% of companies use web forms for lead generation, with 49.7% stating their online forms are their highest converting lead generation tools. Traditional, fillable PDF forms are one step better than paper-based forms, but still do not meet modern customer expectations. Online, web-based, responsive forms that react to user responses dynamically are the modern way of interacting with customers. Thanks to Adobe Forms application creating such a dynamic Forms experience is no longer a complex endeavor for organizations to implement.. Multiple stakeholders can collaborate on form design and functionality, providing input and feedback in real time. This capability is particularly valuable for larger organizations where various departments may need to contribute to the form creation process. By fostering collaboration, AEM Forms helps to ensure that final products are comprehensive, meet diverse needs, and adhere to organizational standards.

Reusable Fragments: AEM Forms allows the creation of reusable field groups, known as fragments, which can save time and maintain consistency across multiple forms.

As digital transformation continues to shape how organizations interact with customers, the importance of robust, efficient, and user-friendly forms becomes increasingly apparent. AEM Forms stands out as a solution that not only meets current demands but anticipates future needs, ensuring organizations can remain agile and responsive.

AEM Adaptive Forms: The Modern Solution for Paperless Workflows
From Paperwork to Dynamic Forms: The Evolution of Adobe Forms
From Paperwork to Dynamic Forms: The Evolution of Adobe Forms

Ultimately, Adobe Experience Manager Forms, with its rich features and capabilities, represents a vital component of modern digital transformation strategies. By embracing this powerful tool, organizations can enhance user experiences, streamline processes, and drive efficiencies that contribute to long-term success. Partnering with experts like Autowoven further amplifies these benefits, ensuring that businesses are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of digital form management and leverage their full potential.

In addition to these features, organizations benefit from the seamless integration of Adobe Sign within AEM Forms, which simplifies the signing process for both businesses and customers. With this integration, users can complete forms and electronically sign documents in a single workflow, streamlining processes that typically require multiple steps. This not only enhances user convenience but also accelerates the overall turnaround time for critical transactions, such as contracts and agreements. The ability to capture digital signatures securely and efficiently is essential for organizations looking to improve compliance and reduce the risks associated with paper-based documentation.

Real-Time Database Integration: Organizations can connect forms to databases in real time, enabling the seamless saving and retrieval of data as users fill out forms.

How can businesses customize AEM Forms to meet their brand guidelines?

Moreover, the importance of integrating Adobe Experience Forms with other Adobe products cannot be overstated. AEM Forms works in synergy with Adobe Experience Manager Sites, allowing organizations to create comprehensive user experiences that span websites and applications. This integration facilitates a unified user journey, where forms seamlessly blend into the broader context of content delivery and customer engagement strategies.

For instance, by utilizing Adobe Analytics alongside AEM Forms, businesses can gain valuable insights into user interactions with forms. Tracking metrics such as form completion rates, drop-off points, and user behavior enables organizations to identify areas for improvement. With this data, businesses can refine their forms, making them more user-friendly and effective at capturing essential information.

Additionally, Autowoven's deep understanding of AEM's workflow capabilities ensures that organizations can streamline their processes. By automating workflows that integrate forms with backend systems, such as Customer Relationship Management (CRM) or Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, businesses can eliminate bottlenecks and enhance operational efficiency. This automation reduces manual input errors and accelerates data processing, allowing organizations to respond to customer inquiries and needs more swiftly.

How can businesses customize AEM Forms to meet their brand guidelines?

Frequently Asked Questions


The 'Mobile First' approach focuses on designing websites and applications primarily for mobile devices, ensuring optimal user experiences across all devices.


Autowoven offers services in digital marketing technologies, including Adobe Marketing Cloud, OpenText Content Management, and full-stack application development.


Autowoven is located at 116 Village Blvd, Princeton, NJ 08540.