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Linking PDF to Project

Forum Index > JavaScript > Linking PDF to Project
2007-06-07 18:50:53
davidC
Registered: Jun 7 2007
Posts: 4

Hi,
I understand that it is possible to add forms to a PDF file. What I would like to do is have a form/box whatever on a pdf document that can be interactively linked back to another programme. An example would be linking specific activities in Project to a box/form on the PDF'd drawing adjacent to that part of the drawing the date relates to. This then gives a visual overview of a project and it's progress.
 
If this can be done, what verison of Acrobat is needed to perform this?
 
Regards
 
DavidC

My Product Information:
Acrobat Standard 4, Windows
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2007-06-08 21:52:10
#1
thomp
Expert
Registered: Feb 15 2006
Posts: 4411
A great number of things can be done with PDF and Acrobat. If you want to make forms or design with other interactive features you will need Acrobat Professional. However, the really complex things also require some JavaScript programming. How proficient are you at programming?

Just as a heads up. You cannot activate are communicate with an external software application from Acrobat. Well, you can, but not directly and only under controlled conditions. So before we can tell you if something can be done you have to say exactly what it is you want to do.

Please explain in more detail.

Thom Parker
The source for PDF Scripting Info
www.pdfscripting.com
Very Important - How to Debug Your Script

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2007-06-08 23:52:50
#2
davidC
Registered: Jun 7 2007
Posts: 4
Thanks for your prompt response Thom.

You answered my initial question, that I would need professional before even thinking about what to do next.

For myself, I have programmed in VB but my son is doing an IT course so I might be able to convince him to do something in Java.

What my thoughts are: I am presently scheduling and monitoring the progress of a major construction project with at least one more likely to follow in the next year. As a quick visual aid to understanding when various parts of the construction will be completed and help in coordinatiung different contractors, I would like to link up specific dates of activities to a 'box' against parts of an overview construciton plan. E.g date of roof completion showing on a plan in PDF. We only have access to the PDF file, and don't have any real need to access the CAD drawing.

Hope this explains things a little more.

Regards and thanks for your help.

DavidC
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