zipForm® has always been a powerful solution, if sometimes overwhelming to use. That all changed last year, though, when zipLogix released an overhaul that made their flagship product much more user friendly.

Dubbed zipForm® Plus, the updated program featured a more attractive and intuitive user interface than its predecessor, zipForm® 6. Thankfully, zipLogix is frequently issuing updates to the new program, calling it "a vital part of the promise we made when zipForm Plus was released."

Last month, zipLogix release two major updates to the program that further streamline the user experience. Here's a quick overview:

Embedded eSignatures

Users no longer need to switch to their eSignature program when it comes time to sign a document. Signature solutions are now completely embedded, meaning that users can send documents, modify signatures, add documents, and check signature status without leaving zipForm® Plus. The entire process is now contained within the program's interface.

Reduced Data Entry Time

Data within zipForm® now flows more freely between different components. For example, users can fill forms with contact information from the Address Book in the Parties tab and, vice versa, save new transaction participants from the Parties tab to the Address Book. Property information can also be easily imported into forms with MLS Connect (where available).

Another way to save data entry time is by entering basic transaction information before forms are added. Then, that data will be auto-populated into all future forms as they are added.

Easily Send Transactions

Send forms directly from zipForm® Plus to transaction participants, address book contacts, or other parties via fax or email. Users can select specific pages, entire forms, or entire transactions to send. Emailed forms are sent as securely locked PDF attachments.

Service Provider Feature

Released as a separate update, the new Service Provider program puts zipForm® Plus closer to the goal of becoming a "one-stop shop" for managing transactions. The update makes it easy for users to quickly order services like home warranties and hazard disclosures from within the program. zipForm® Plus accomplishes this by including:

• The contact information of participating companies in the zipForm® Plus address book
• A form library with each vendor's forms
• Links to the provider's website within zipForm® Plus

Touching again on zipLogix's drive to eliminate unnecessary data entry, the integration auto-populates service provider forms and allows users to send those forms via email or electronic fax.

The new feature is accessible via the Service Providers icon on the home screen of zipForm® Plus.

Next Steps

• See our product review of zipForm® Plus to learn more
• Read articles about Contracts/Forms and Transaction Management
• Explore more Contracts/Forms and Transaction Management solutions