Public Form or Update Link: Which Should You Send?

The difference between a public form or update link is what happens on submission. A form creates a new record; an update link edits one that already exists.

Why sending the wrong one creates duplicates

Most forms create. Asking someone to correct information with a creation form produces a second copy of the same thing.

Two supplier records where there should be one
Corrections submitted as new entries nobody merges
Manual reconciliation to determine which is current
Data quality falling with every round of follow-up

When to use each

Situation	Send
First contact	A public form, creating the record
Missing document	An update link, editing the existing record
Annual data refresh	An update link, so history is preserved
Correcting an error	An update link, scoped to the wrong fields

How to configure both in Jestor

Build the public form in Jestor for initial submissions and generate its link.
Add the update link field to the table, which generates links automatically.
Choose where the update form comes from — an app, the table's form, or a public form.
Point it at a form scoped to only the fields you are asking about.
Decide whether the field copies the link or opens it, and customize the button.

Why choose Jestor for external data collection?

Before the update link field existed, these links had to be assembled with formulas and automations. Jestor now generates them from a field, removing both the setup and the risk of it breaking.

Because any form can be used, the update experience keeps your branding, conditionals, and layout rather than reverting to a generic template.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an update link create a new record?

No, it edits the existing one. See jestor.com.

Can I limit which fields it asks for?

Yes, by pointing it at a scoped form.

Does the person need an account?

No, neither option requires one.

Video Tutorial: Step by Step

Check out other practical tutorials on the Jestor YouTube channel.

Get to know Jestor

With Jestor, you can automate workflows, connect teams, and build internal systems your way — all without code and powered by AI. Discover Jestor at jestor.com and see how to take your company's operations to a new level of efficiency and control.

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