Computer forms for data entry to be used for mail merging labels,

[Jackieblue]

Having read the Missing Manual, I can see that I could create forms (referred
to as computer forms) so that data can later be reused for labels, or other
merges.

I can understand how to create the forms. What I can't see as it isn't
referred to is how these individually completed forms, would ever come
together to create a single "database".

Any suggestions much appreciated.

All I am really trying to do is gather 30/40 items of data for 30/40 people
and then pull off in a mail merge, either address labels or a listing of
their contact numbers, etc.

I could create in Excel, but seem to understand this is equally doable in
Word ??

As I say, many thanks.

 

[Peter Jamieson]

I don't know which Missing Manual this is - is it one for Word?

However, you are correct that none of the Word forms technologies can be
used out-of-the-box, without programming, to create multi-record databases,
unless you count the facility within Word MailMerge itself (i.e. where you
create a new address list and you are presented with a form in the shape of
a dialog box whose layout and functionality you cannot change at all). There
is not a lot wrong with that facility, except for the fact that the data is
stored in a format that you cannot really safely edit or manipulate in any
way except via Word.

For the volume of data you are talking about, I would be inclined to stick
to entering the data directly into either Excel, or (say) a Word document
containing a table with one column for each data item, and a row at the top
with the names of each column, and concentrate on working out what data you
need to store to create the outputs you need.

Peter Jamieson

 

[Jackieblue]

Peter,
Thanks very much. You confirm that I am looking for something that doesn't
exist ! I was looking at The Missing Manual for Word 2007, that seemed to
imply under "Creating a Computer Form" that " .... if ... fill out a form
than you wouldn't have to retype the information to use it.".

Thanks also for confirming that the only two ways I could think of for doing
what I needed (ie Word table or Excel spreadsheet) were actually the best.

Thanks again.