Exchanging forms and sheets with Other Users

[Rickliftig]

Jordan -

Now that forms/sheets integration (online, pdf, kiosk) is taking off, it would be fabulous if there was a way that the users could exchange/export their work for others to use and adapt. A fourth forum section could be established devoted entirely to this end.

I believe it is in the request system now. How difficult a project is it?

PS - we're always thinking of ways to make you program more and do dentistry less...

[Shoagland]

I agree, it would be great to co-op info between users.

[jordansparks]

Yes, I know. But since there is a workaround, it must be a lower priority than things that have no workaround at all. At least pdf's are shareable. That should help a lot. Don't forget that "online" pdf's can also be used in-office for kiosk by the patient just using the browser.

[Rickliftig]

I see your point here, Jordan - Adobe is the way to go - looks like you can find a copy of Acrobat 9.0 Pro in the $135 range, but I didn't see any references to purchasing licenses. Also, I'll have to check out that seller - it could be an upgrade or grey market disk.

[jordansparks]

Seems safer to buy it directly from Adobe.

[drtech]

since you integrated this Adobe Acrobat stuff, you think this make more sense then just making forms on your own website and send via text file, or directly to an mysql database, and making an import module that way?

[jordansparks]

Well, yes, of course we considered that option. But advantages of pdf are:
1. You can transmit the whole form. Not just the data, but also the original appearance.
2. There is more than one option for transport. Upload, email, etc.
3. The whole form can be archived as it originally appeared.
4. We will eventually put pdf's on the newly overhauled terminal feature.
5. Users can share pdf's.
6. Pdf's look nicer than web forms, usually.
7. Printing is simplified.
8. Building a pdf has a shorter learning curve than web forms.
9. Emailing the data is not secure.
10. Pdf's can be two-way. In other words, prefilled by office.
11. Closely matches sheet framework in function.
12. Web forms was tried about 3 years ago and failed miserably because users wanted to customize.
I had no idea there were so many advantages until I listed them all out.

[drtech]

so what is the recommended package to buy then from adobe to make this all work? Pro or standard?

[peterskuben]

I'm using Foxit Phantom PDF publisher. It is faster, cheaper and lighter on system resources. Here is the link: http://www.foxitsoftware.com/pdf/comparison_sheet.html

[jordansparks]

You'll need Pro or else our import process won't work. It specifically calls the Acrobat dlls.

http://www.opendental.com/manual/adobeforms.html