Generating automated reports from a word template

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Generating automated reports from a word template

Anonymous

I want to be able to automatically generate reports in Word.

These detailed reports will be based on standard text and images (common to every report generated) and custom text blocks with generated summary charts. These custom generated sections will be based on data gathered from an online survey using tool. from the final report I want to automatically generated a pdf of that report and automatically send to the user completing the survey. I have found a number of online providers providing services like this (such as www.brilliantassessments.com) but cost prohibitive for bulk report generation. Any suggestion/recommendations??

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Answer 1

One more thing I would add to this is that you really want to be familiar with much of Word's features, capabilities and quirks. Otherwise, you will spend an inordinate and frustrating amount of time trying to reinvent something that is already a part of Word.

Basic Concepts of Microsoft Word - from Shauna Kelly Word is not highly intuitive when you are trying to get it to do more than produce a simple document. For instance: Word Doesn't Know What a Page Is by Daiya Mitchell, MVP( https://wordmvp.com/Mac/PagesInWord.html).

Much of vba for Word for the Mac is the same as vba for Word for Windows, but not all.

Windows does not have Applescript.

Remember, as you are doing things, document what you are doing. Comments in vba are very useful.

Break things into small steps. Most of what can be done programming can be done manually in the user interface. See what steps are needed.

While you can record macros for steps, recorded macros tend to be inefficient and some things cannot be done recording.

See also: How to Modify a Recorded Macro by Jay Freedman

As Jim noted, there is a learning curve. In my opinion, especially for an organization, it is worth spending the time.

Here is a good resource: Word Macros and Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) FAQ

Answer 2

I completely agree with Charles. Your Mac combined with Microsoft Word, AppleScript and programmable applications has everything you need to accomplish the task. I think far too few people take the time to learn about and understand their computers. It's not all that difficult, but there is a learning curve.

There's a boatload of information on line about using AppleScript. Here's a page to get you started: https://appleinsider.com/inside/macos/tips/how-to-get-started-with-macos-applescript-dictionaries-syntax-and-more

Tip: The best web browser to use with Applescript is Omniweb: www.omnigroup.com/omniweb

Answer 3

Jim G 134K MVP Volunteer Moderator

Just a further note to Charles' excellent reply.

Visual Basic for Applications is a built-in Microsoft Office programming language. You can run AppleScripts in VBA and you can run VBA from AppleScript. VBA can't directly control other applications outside Microsoft Office, but AppleScript can.

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Answer 4

Hello Peter,

What you are looking for is some special programming that can likely be done through Word. More can be done in the Windows version but it might not be necessary. It would be beyond my capabilities. It will not be a simple thing.

There is a reason that the other programs are costing that much; they likely involve a good deal of work and are for a fairly small market.

You can spend the time to learn enough about Word to do this, I expect.

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Generating automated reports from a word template

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