Google Forms is a slap-up product. Information technology'southward free, like shooting fish in a barrel to apply and pop. However, accepting attachments or file uploads requires you to use specific settings. If you want to collect files from anyone or allow file uploads without login to google – you lot'll need to employ file upload software instead that integrates with Google Bulldoze instead.

Hither are the 6 steps you need to take to successfully upload files and attachments using Google Forms.

i. Add a file upload field to your Google Class

To add together a file upload question, choose '+' so use the dropdown to find 'File upload'. You can choose to allow only specific file types, maximum number of files and maximum file size.

two. Make sure that your respondents have Google accounts OR use software that connects to Google Drive

You can just receive files from respondents with Google accounts using Google Forms. There is no piece of cake workaround just using Google Forms to allow file uploads without login.

If you want to receive files from anyone yous'll demand to utilize file request software that connects to Google Bulldoze.

This type of software isn't free. However, besides every bit getting a form architect with conditional logic, you'll as well take access to additional functionality like:

  • Dynamic file organisation linked to your Google Drive account
  • Automated reminder email sequences
  • A customised file asking procedure

3. Connect your Google Form to your private Google Drive (or the file upload option will be greyed out)

Shared drives are a great manner to work with teams: "Shared drive files belong to the team instead of an private. Even if members get out, the files stay in identify then your team can keep sharing information and work anywhere, from any device."

However, yous won't be able to use file upload questions if the course is stored in a shared bulldoze. If the file upload choice is greyed out this might be why. This restriction seems to exist related to security issues  Read more than in the Google Assist Department.

iv. Turn off Data Loss Prevention (or the file upload pick volition be greyed out)

If your ambassador has turned on data loss prevention this can also atomic number 82 to the file upload choice being greyed out besides.

Check with your ambassador that Information Loss Prevention is turned off is y'all desire to request files using Google Forms. If your administrator is hesitant to do this, and so you'll need to look to other file request options.

5. Cull the Google Grade settings that piece of work for you lot

Google Forms allows you lot to change certain settings. You tin can make the form into a quiz, manage how you collect responses and change how the form and responses are presented.

6. Send clients a link to your Google Form

Yous can electronic mail clients with a link to your Google Course, or ship them a link direct. Google gives you the option to shorten your link, although you can't customise it.

You tin't embed a Google Form in your website if you have a file upload question in it. You'll get an error bulletin if you lot attempt and do this.

Are the Google Forms restrictions too difficult? There are other options.

If it is of import for you that you lot tin request and organise files from clients, partner businesses or suppliers and so you might need to look at other options. You'll specifically want upload software that natively integrates with Google Drive, and so your workflow is as streamlined as possible.

We created File Request Pro and then that you can utilise cloud drives for what they are not bad at – file storing and synching across devices – and File Request Pro for professionally collecting and organising whatsoever type of file or binder.

How File Request Pro works – the easy way to allow file uploads from anyone direct to Google Drive

  1. Sign upward for a free trial business relationship and connect your Google Bulldoze account (shared or private) with a click
  2. Create a branded upload page using as many or as few customisations options as you choose
  3. Add together whatsoever extra form fields to collect text information (date, email, subconscious, anything actually) and decide whether you lot desire a i-folio or multi-page grade
  4. Add conditional logic to questions or entire pages so your clients only see relevant questions
  5. Activate a reminder sequence of emails and set a deadline and then you don't take to chase clients manually for content
  6. Send a customised link to your clients, or embed the upload page in your website. Clients don't need to sign in or create an account.
  7. Files and any text volition automatically appear in your folders in Google Drive, organised by whatever value yous choose

To read in more item near how File Upload Pro works please see our article: Allow anyone to upload files direct to your Google Drive.

Here'south an example of a File Request Pro branded upload page: