Can Adobe Reader Be Used for More Than Simply Viewing and Filling Out PDF Forms?

I realize it may seem somewhat unusual to post a question and then answer it myself. However, after more than three decades developing interactive PDF forms and applications, I thought this might be a useful topic to share with Adobe Reader users who may not realize how much functionality can be built into a PDF while still allowing the completed application to operate in the free Adobe Reader.

The answer is yes — and considerably more than many Adobe Reader users may realize!

Interactive PDF forms can be designed to perform many application-like functions while still operating in the free Adobe Reader. Depending upon how the PDF is developed, JavaScript can be used behind the scenes to perform calculations, validate information, automate repetitive tasks, manage form data, populate fields, search and retrieve stored information, and provide other interactive functions.

From the user's standpoint, none of this requires an understanding of Acrobat JavaScript or PDF form development. The programming is built into the PDF itself. The user simply opens the document in Adobe Reader and works with the controls and fields provided by the form.

This can make a properly designed PDF considerably more than an electronic version of a paper form. For certain applications, it can function much like a small self-contained desktop application while retaining the portability and familiar interface of a PDF document.

There are practical limitations, of course, and Adobe Reader is not intended to replace a general-purpose application platform. But for relatively focused applications involving calculations, structured information, repetitive data entry, record retrieval, and similar tasks, an interactive PDF can accomplish considerably more than simply displaying and collecting information.

I'm curious how many Adobe Reader users are aware that PDF forms can be developed to operate at this level without requiring the user to own Acrobat.

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