I know that this question has been asked a million different ways, but points are points, I guess.
Let me explain our document structure: Each collection of documents is called a "case". There is a physical folder that holds all of the paperwork associated with a case. There are 4 different forms that can be used with each case. Some of the forms can be used more than once.
I have created PDF fill-in forms with the 4 forms. Currently, the user loads the form in Acrobat, fills it in, and exports the data as an FDF file, which is then saved in their directory (for later use, if needs be). The user then prints the form for the case. This is done for each form.
I would like to be able to fill these forms out via HTML (on a webpage), which then saves the data to a database. I want to be able to send the data to the PDF form for printing.
So, I know that all of these things can be done. Here's what I need to know: Instead of the user having to click "print" for each form, I would like them to have the ability to fill out all of the forms they are planning on using for the "case", and then print them all at once. So, currently there are 4 distinct PDF files. Each is being opened separately, filled out, printed, and then closed. It would be nice to have that all happen in one fell swoop - like one PDF file with each form in the PDF (could be a 4 page PDF file). I'll bet that it would take some professional $$ software to do that.
If this step cannot be done without spending lots of money, then how about opening each form, printing it, and closing it without any input from the user, or without anything happening visually on the screen? I know that with some macros, you can program them to execute without displaying the results of each step in the macro.
Next question: What is the best language to do this all in? Most of my experience is in ASP, but I can do JSP (I actually prefer JSP). I briefly studied PHP, and could probably pick it up. I know that PHP has some built-in functions. That might be nice to use, because I would like to use MySql for the database.
I will have some further questions on this topic that I can't think of right now. The point recipient will participate throughout the discussion. Shouldn't be but a couple more questions. I will set the points higher for this reason.
