The data source for data prepared in a dynamically created PDF document is usually a database, often an Oracle RDBMS. On the other hand, it is a general requirement to store the conditions under which the dynamic generation took place as well as the generated document. It is practical to store these data in a database as well, for easy access in the future. If both the source and target of the generated document is in the database then it is best to actually generate the document in the database also. If the database we are talking about is an Oracle database, then the best tool to use for the dynamic generation is the PL/SQL language because:
- It is integrated with the Oracle database; therefore it is the safest, quickest and most efficient way of interacting with the database
- It is a well-known language for anyone who works in an Oracle environment; therefore there is no need for developers to learn a new programming language
- There is no need for a separate server (physical or virtual i.e. separate software); therefore the cost of hardware and operation is reduced. Also, because of the simplicity of the infrastructure, the risks are reduced.
Example for the usage of PL/PDF:
- When developing internet/intranet applications with MOD_PLSQL, Oracle does not provide a reporting tool, PL/PDF can provide this functionality
- Similarly, APEX is a development tool that does not have a tool to prepare reports and printouts. Because APEX is based on MOD_PLSQL, therefore PL/PDF can be used to produce the necessary documents
- Oracle Portal systems provide the possibility of developing in PL/SQL, so PL/PDF can be adopted to provide documents
- PL/PDF stores the PDF document in the database, so it can be used in conjunction with systems that can read from an Oracle database, but are not written in PL/SQL
- During implementation of an Oracle Warehouse Builder (OWB) project, it is always a requirement to provide technical documentation on the objects stored in Warehouse Builder (mappings, dimensions, facts etc.). Unfortunately, OWB does not provide Design Repository Reports that would produce the documentation in a well formatted manner. PL/PDF will document OWB objects and will store the resulting documentation in the Oracle database, where it can be accessed without the use of web servers
- Oracle Discoverer also does not provide an End User Layer metadata document generator. PL/PDF can be adopted for this purpose
- Oracle schemas or database can be also documented using PL/PDF, thus providing a useful technical or user documentation
- Customized catalogs or guides can be prepared according to user/customer specification for a specific product. The content and arrangement of information can be user specific
- Customized financial statements: an employee or manager can set his/her preferences and the statements are produced accordingly
- The Oracle RDBMS is capable of executing procedures as scheduled jobs. Using this capability, according to preset preferences, documents can be produced and published on an internet/intranet site or can be e-mailed to a person or group
If you wish to order PL/PDF, please proceed to the Order page. The cost of a PL/PDF licence is US$600. A licence is required per Oracle database. The Trial version of our product is available on the Downloads page. The Trial version has two limitations: Only 5 pages per PDF document may be produced; All pages are watermarked. Our Examples page helps you get started on how to use PL/PDF. We have around 250 customers from all over the world! Check out our Feedback and Reference pages.
