Writer Guide

Introduction
This chapter covers the use of forms within Writer documents. Most of
the information here also applies to forms in other OpenOffice.org
components, but there are some differences.
The chapter presents information on using forms in four main sections:
setting up a basic form, an example for creating a form, linking a form
to a data source and finally some advanced techniques.
OpenOffice.org forms cover a lot of ground and not everything is
included here. Notable omissions are using forms in HTML documents
and writing macros to link to form controls.
When to use forms
A standard text document displays information: a letter, report or
brochure, for example. Typically the reader may edit everything or
nothing in any way. A form has sections that are not to be edited, and
other sections that are designed for the reader to make changes. For
example, a questionnaire has an introduction and questions (which do
not change) and spaces for the reader to enter answers.
OpenOffice.org offers several ways to fill information into a form,
including check boxes, option buttons, text boxes, pull-down lists and
spinners.
Forms are used in three ways:
• To create a simple document for the recipient to complete, such
as a questionnaire sent out to a group of people who fill it in and
return it.
• To link into a database or data source and allow the user to enter
information. Someone taking orders might enter the information
for each order into a database using a form.
• To view information held in a database or data source. A librarian
might call up information about books.
Using forms to access a database offers a fast and easy way to build up
complex graphical front ends. Your form can include not only the fields
that link up to the data source but also text, graphics, tables, drawings
and other elements.
Chapter 15 Using Forms in Writer 467