What are Templates?

Templates in Metaforms are predefined sets of rules and examples that shape how surveys are generated and programmed. Think of them as the baseline code or configuration layer that loads even before you begin programming a survey.

Templates allow you to build on top of the model’s baseline intelligence with your own custom logic and instructions - helping standardise survey logic across teams and clients.

You can create new templates or change existing templates by navigating to Templates tab.

Templates are built using:

• Shell - This includes a baseline XML, Quota sheet and other files that you can set for every single template. These also include Dynamic placeholders to be filled by AI based on the questionnaires used.

• AI Rules – Clear, detailed instructions that guide how questions should be interpreted and generated.

  • XML Examples – Sample question structures that demonstrate the expected output.

  • Explanations – Supporting notes that clarify how rules should be applied.

  • Instructions - An explanation on how AI should generate code when this template is used.

The better defined your rules and examples, the more accurate and consistent your outputs will be.

Improving a Template (Continuous Tuning Process)

To update a template effectively:

1. Check if the rule already exists.

   • If it does but isn’t working well, identify the failing part and update the explanation.

2. Look for conflicting examples.

   • Remove or reword anything that contradicts your intended logic.

3. Improve clarity.

   • If a rule works but isn’t well documented, add it as a distinct entry under AI Rules.

4. Add new rules as needed.

   • Clearly define any missing logic and support it with relevant examples and explanations.

5. Test changes.

   • Save the updated template, refresh the survey, and re-generate the same questions to confirm that the behaviour has been fixed.

This is a continuous improvement process. Every refinement reduces future manual intervention and speeds up programming.

Using a Template in Your Survey

To apply a template to your survey project:

• Select the desired template during Step 2: Setup when creating a new project in Metaforms.