creating a field template to reuse on multiple forms

[VO@BHB]

I have a form PDF that we use over and over again.  I have to add the same text fields in the same location every time to these forms.  Is there a way in Adobe Acrobat DC to just save these form fields and apply it to the document each time without having to recreate the multiple fields manually every time?  They are just text boxes where I list the same information on the form, in the same location.  Can I save those as a template and then when I open the new PDF form, just apply that template so that all those fields are inserted and not manually have to create each one individually each time?  TIA!

As a side bar, this form is also electronically signed by different people each time.  Is there a way to add a signature and date block as well?

[try67]

Yes, you can do it a couple of ways. One is to write a script that adds those scripts and then call it from a toolbar or menu item (this is more complicated and will require installing in into a .js file on the local machine, or as a part of an Action). The second is to add the fields to an empty page, save it as a template and then open it and use the Replace Pages command on it to insert the pages from your new, static file into it. This will keep all the form fields in tact. Just remember to save it under a new name afterwards.

[try67]

Re side-note: Sure, you can add a Digital Signature field and a text field with a Date format, although the signature will automatically show the date and time it was signed, so the latter might not be needed.

[VO@BHB]

Thank you!!  (Obviously I am new to Adobe Acrobat). I know this sounds silly but, how would I save the blank page as a template?  I don't see that under the "save as" type options.  I created a blank page with the text forms where I want them, but I am not seeing the save as template type option anywhere.  Then once I do save it as a template, how to I appy it once I open the new document?

[try67]

I should have put "template" in quotes... There's no equivalent to a Word Template file. It's just a regular PDF with the form fields. Once you save it follow my instructions and use the Replace Pages command on it to insert the pages from the actual file into it.

[VO@BHB]

Oh I see what you mean.  I don't think that is working the way I was thinking it would.  I can't replace the page because I still need the original page I opened up.  

The PDF form I have is a one page document with prefilled information on it that varies from case to case each time.  What I need to complete on the form is the same on every single form. Basically I am opening a PDF document that has prefilled information on it and I am simply "filling in the blanks" with the same information (and same location) every time.  The issue is ,the creator of this original PDF form does not make the form fillable which is why I have to manually add the fields I need to fill out each time.  I was hoping to just save the text fields as a template to apply at a click of a button instead of creating the fields manually.  Hopefully I am explaining it well enough. 

[try67]

Then a script is your best option. If you wish I can create it for you, for a fee. You can contact me privately via [try6767 at gmail.com] to discuss it further.

[AdamONeill]

Hey there Try67,

I'm struggling a bit with getting to the result I'm looking for, thought I'd post and ask you for advise. Thanks for your efforts on this thread!

I followed your advice, In the prepare a form tool, I added fields to a PDF, saved it. Then re-opened and used replace pages to swap in the different version of the document, preserving the form fields.

My issue is that I'd like the form fields to be ready for e-sign instead of needing to go into each field and assign to the correct signer each time I need to send this document.

I'd like to be able to set up each field like I can with the create e-sign template tool, assigning the participant, required or not along with any default text.

I don't know how to edit these specific aspects of the fields in the prepare a form tool, The most specific I can go is the type of field.

When I use the create an e-sign template and achieve the level of specificity I want, I can't seem to open that in a way that let's me replace pages.

Thanks in advance for your help!

Adam

[try67]

Sorry, I'm not sure it's possible with an Adobe Sign form. You'll need to ask about that in the forum for that service.

[AdamONeill]

Thanks try67, I've discovered that there is a feature called reusable form
field layer that should do what I need. Unfortunately Adobe is giving me
mixed messages on it's availability for individual users.