CU Boulder has several software applications that can help you create a form or survey for users to fill out. Learn more about each application below. Need help deciding which to use? Scroll down to the comparison matrix for detailed differences and recommendations!
Google Forms
A free, web-based tool for creating surveys, quizzes, and forms with real-time response tracking and integration with Google Sheets.
Microsoft Forms
A simple form and survey builder within Microsoft 365 that allows users to collect responses and view results with built-in analytics.
Docusign
A digital platform used to securely send, sign, and manage electronic agreements and signatures.
Qualtrics
An advanced survey and experience management platform used for in-depth data collection, analysis, and insights across customers, employees, and research studies.
Forms & Surveys Comparison Matrix
| Category | Microsoft Forms | Google Forms | Qualtrics | Docusign |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Simple surveys, quizzes, registrations, quick feedback | Basic surveys/quizzes integrated with Google ecosystem | Advanced research‑grade surveys; complex logic and analytics | Secure signature collection and workflow approvals |
| Ease of Use | Very easy; minimal training | Very easy; widely familiar | Moderate; more complex UI due to advanced options | Moderate; form creation simple but workflow setup can be complex |
| Question Types | Standard question types including:
| Standard question types including:
| Very extensive question types including:
| Limited to fields needed for signatures and basic data |
| Workflow Automation | Moderate (using Power Automate) | Limited | Strong (Survey Flow, triggers, API) | Strong (routing, conditional workflow, signer authentication) |
| Branding/Customization | Light (templates, logos, colors) | Light | Full branding control | Limited branding; templates available |
| Data Analysis/Reporting | Basic charts; export to Excel; integration with Power BI | Basic charts; export to Sheets | Advanced dashboards, stats, cross‑tabs, sentiment analysis | Audit trail + compliance reports; not an analytics tool |
| Security & Compliance | Approved for up to confidential data in Microsoft 365 | Only approved for public data | Enterprise‑grade security; strong compliance posture | Highest signature‑level security; legal/compliance focus |
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| Strengths | Great for quick quizzes, polls | Ubiquitous; easy adoption; simple for students | Best for research, complex logic, institutional surveys | Best for contracts, approvals, legal workflows |
| Limitations | Not ideal for complex research surveys; limited analytics unless paired with Power BI | Limited branching, limited security vs. enterprise tools | Can be overwhelming for simple surveys | Not suited for quizzes or general survey use |
| Recommendations for when to use | Training sign‑ins, satisfaction surveys, quizzes, event forms, data collection for team | Classroom quizzes, simple data collection, student‑friendly forms | Research surveys, campus‑wide assessments, program evaluations | Agreements, approvals, onboarding, compliance documentation |
