Electronic formats are a cornerstone of modern business operations, enabling organizations to move away from cumbersome paper-based processes. From forms to contracts, electronic formats provide efficiency, accessibility, and streamlined workflows.
By adopting digital form workflows and leveraging workflow software , businesses can save time, reduce errors, and improve customer service. In this article, we’ll explore what defines an electronic format, share electronic form examples, provide examples of commonly used electronic documents, and discuss how to convert a PDF into an editable or fillable electronic format. Understanding these concepts will help you choose the best solutions for your organization’s needs.
What is considered an electronic format
Electronic format meaning any digital representation of information that can be stored, processed, and accessed using electronic devices such as computers, tablets, or smartphones. Unlike traditional formats like paper or physical files, electronic formats offer greater flexibility, accessibility, and ease of sharing.
Common examples of electronic formats:
- Text files: Plain text (.txt), Word documents (.docx), and rich text files (.rtf).
- Spreadsheets: Data management files such as Excel (.xlsx) or Google Sheets.
- Images: Digital graphics and photos stored in formats like JPEG, PNG, or GIF.
- Presentations: Slideshow formats like PowerPoint (.pptx) or Google Slides.
- Forms: Interactive forms, such as those created in electronic form examples software like fillable PDFs or online form builders.
Adopting electronic formats is essential for businesses aiming to reduce operational errors and enhance collaboration. By incorporating tools like workflow software, companies can automate repetitive tasks, centralize document management, and streamline operations.
What is an example of an electronic format
Electronic formats are widely used across industries to improve efficiency and collaboration.
Some of the most common electronic format examples include:
- PDFs (Portable Document Format): Ideal for preserving the formatting of documents, PDFs are commonly used for contracts, invoices, and reports.
- Word Documents: Editable text files such as Microsoft Word (.docx) are often used for drafting proposals, meeting notes, and other collaborative tasks.
- Spreadsheets: Tools like Excel or Google Sheets are essential for managing data, creating budgets, or analyzing metrics.
- Fillable Forms: Digital forms, such as those created using electronic form examples software, allow users to complete forms directly on their devices without the need for printing.
- Presentations: Slide-based formats like PowerPoint or Google Slides are perfect for conveying ideas in meetings or webinars.
Each of these formats supports specific business needs, offering unique features that enhance usability and accessibility. When integrated into digital form workflows, these formats make it easier to organize, share, and execute tasks within teams.
What is an example of an electronic document
An electronic document is a digital version of a traditional paper document, designed to be stored, shared, and accessed electronically. In other words, it answers the question: What is a digital document? A digital document is any file or form that exists in a format compatible with electronic devices, replacing physical copies with easily accessible and shareable alternatives.
Examples of electronic documents:
- Contracts: Digitally created and signed agreements, often using fillable PDFs or e-signature tools.
- Invoices: Digital billing documents generated in formats like PDF or Word, frequently used within accounting software.
- Forms: Online forms, such as surveys or job applications, that users can complete directly on their devices.
- Reports: Analytical summaries or project updates stored in formats like Word, PDF, or Excel for easy sharing.
- Policies: Company policies or procedures documented digitally to ensure easy distribution and updates.
By adopting electronic documents, businesses can improve accessibility, reduce physical storage needs, and integrate seamlessly into workflow software. This enhances document management, enabling smoother operations and faster collaboration.
How do I convert a PDF to electronic format
Converting a PDF into an electronic format document (digital form) that is editable or fillable is a straightforward process with the right tools. While PDFs are already digital, making them interactive or editable allows businesses to streamline workflows and improve usability.
How you can convert a PDF to an electronic format:
- Use PDF Editing Software: Tools like Adobe Acrobat or specialized PDF editors allow you to create fillable fields, enabling users to input data directly into the document.
- Use beSlick’s Digital Forms Feature: Instead of working with static PDFs, use beSlick’s digital forms feature to create interactive forms that can be completed online. This feature supports forms with dynamic due dates and task assignment, ideal for businesses seeking efficient, actionable workflows.
- Online Conversion Tools: Platforms such as Smallpdf allow basic edits but lack the workflow integration offered by solutions like beSlick.
By leveraging tools like beSlick, businesses can integrate forms into digital form workflows, enabling better task management, improved visibility, and streamlined operations, all without the limitations of static PDF formats.
Why Electronic Formats Are the Future of Business
Embracing electronic formats is no longer optional—it’s essential for businesses looking to stay competitive. By adopting tools like workflow software and beSlick’s digital forms feature, organizations can eliminate inefficiencies, improve collaboration, and reduce costly errors.
Whether you’re managing digital form workflows or creating dynamic forms, electronic formats enable greater flexibility, faster processing, and improved scalability. Ready to streamline your processes? Explore how beSlick can help you create actionable, efficient workflows that transform the way your business operates.
Alister Esam, Author of The Dirty Word and CEO at beSlick
Alister Esam is a successful entrepreneur and investor, having bootstrapped his fintech software business eShare to international status operating in over 40 countries and servicing 20,000 board directors, before successfully exiting to a multibillion-dollar organisation in 2018. He now invests in a variety of startups and on a global mission to make work, work.