Word & XML

[Ivan Debono]

Ok, here's is what I'm doing at the moment:

I create templates with bookmarks and autotextentries. Through VB6 I create
documents based on these templates and insert data where the bookmarks are.
It works fine till a certain point, especially when I want multiple columns
for inserting data. I didn't manage to do either coz it's not possible to
automate it or I lack the mental horsepower!!!

So now I'm looking for a better alternative and before delving in it, I'd
like some input from you experts.

My idea is to use XML instead. At the end of it all, I want the following:

1. Be able to create templates just the same easy way as standard DOT.
2. Creating DOCs from these templates directly, preferably skipping
automating Word (I heard it could be done)
3. Allow for much more flexibility, especially multiple columns

Is it possible to achieve this? Are there and tutorials, examples, links or
even books??

Thanks,
Ivan

 

[Cindy M -WordMVP-]

Hi Ivan,

I create templates with bookmarks and autotextentries. Through VB6 I create
documents based on these templates and insert data where the bookmarks are.
It works fine till a certain point, especially when I want multiple columns
for inserting data. I didn't manage to do either coz it's not possible to
automate it or I lack the mental horsepower!!!

So now I'm looking for a better alternative and before delving in it, I'd
like some input from you experts.

My idea is to use XML instead. At the end of it all, I want the following:

1. Be able to create templates just the same easy way as standard DOT.
2. Creating DOCs from these templates directly, preferably skipping
automating Word (I heard it could be done)
3. Allow for much more flexibility, especially multiple columns

Is it possible to achieve this? Are there and tutorials, examples, links or
even books??

Well, you can use XML to drop data into a Word document. But the formatting?
Oi! You have to really understand the Word formatting you want to use, then
learn the XML codes for it, and use them correctly. Certainly, it can be
done; and what's more, it can be done without having to open Word. or even
needing to have Word installed. But it won't allow you to do anything you
can't do when automating Word via VBA. IOW, you don't get more flexibility in
the formatting it allows you.

Cindy Meister
INTER-Solutions, Switzerland
http://homepage.swissonline.ch/cindymeister (last update Jun 8 2004)
http://www.word.mvps.org

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