Comments on: How do I create PDF forms from Access/Excel data?

Question: How do I create PDF forms from Access/Excel data?

elle.jeezy — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 17:34:37 -0800

I need to generate fillable PDF forms with calculations from an Access db or Excel spreadsheet.

I know I can use Adobe LiveCycle Designer to create the forms, but I haven't come across a site that has a tutorial or instructions on how to set up the form and connect it to the spreadsheet or access database.

I need to run over 200 individual team rosters with fields for player names, addresses, etc., the total payment and the grand total. I don't relish making the forms by hand (though I don't mind a little manual work), so what would be the easiest way to generate the PDF forms?

I want the user to fill the form, then submit the data and send the PDF file back so that I can export the data.

I'm doing this in a Windows environment. An open source solution would be fantastic. As would a <$100 solution. Or, perhaps someone to set it up for me (for pay).

I have access to LiveCycle Designer 7 and 7.1.

Any help appreciated.

By: Civil_Disobedient

Civil_Disobedient — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 18:14:17 -0800

I'd export the db fields to an XML file, then use XSL and an open-source transformer to create the PDF. FOP is what I use at work. It's open-source, Java-based, and can run as a stand-alone program if you like.

If you need some help creating the XSL template, just let me know. It's not nearly as complicated as it may seem at first.

By: elle.jeezy

elle.jeezy — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 18:50:18 -0800

Thanks Civil_Disobedient. I sent you an email at your profile address.

By: Alt F4

Alt F4 — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 04:52:16 -0800

In case anyone ever needs to go the other way (PDF > Excel), there's Cogniview.