Prepopulating PDF forms with data from XML file

Question

How can I get a PDF form to open pre-populated with data from an XML file automatically? I've been using Adobe LifeCycle Designer 8.0 and there doesn't seem to be a way to do it. The closest I came was to use the ImportData method, but that only lets you specify a data file if the form is signed (certified), which these aren't and don't need to be because we're using them on an internal company web page. ImportData works if there is no file name, but then the user has to navigate to and select the correct file, which we can't rely on our users to do.
I've researched this problem for days on this and other websites and haven't found an answer (one Adobe advisor suggested purchasing LifeCycle Forms, which is not an option because it's a $10,000 software package and the company wouldn't authorize a purchase that steep). We will buy a less-expensive option if there is one. We'll even hire a consultant if we can find one to who can design a supportable solution. All suggestions will be much appreciated.

Answer 1

Hi Sharon
The easiest way is:
- Open your PDF form within Acrobat
- From the File menu, import the XML form data into the form
- From the File menu, use Save As... to save the file with a new name.
The new PDF will be identical to the original one, but will have the data embedded in it. Voila.
If you want the same form to pre-populate with different XML files depending on the circumstances, or if you're generating the XML on the fly, then things get more complicated. (And more expensive.) As your consultant said, LiveCycle Forms is one option, but it is expensive (actually even more than 10K). There are other options, including Cold Fusion, custom servlets, etc.
Howard
http://www.avoka.com