Use HotDocs® Database Connection to retrieve data from a database and use it in your document. HotDocs can query most databases which feature either an OLE DB provider or an ODBC driver. HotDocs has been certified to work with some of the most popular SQL-based database systems (see System Requirements), and it should also function with other databases or database-like systems that support data access via ODBC or OLE DB. This includes many Personal Information Managers (PIMs), Practice Management Systems, Case Management Systems, and Time and Billing Systems.

Note: HotDocs Database Connection can be used with any 32-bit ODBC-compliant database. However, the Database Connection is a "read-only" link and cannot write information back to the database.

• HotDocs Database Connection uses ADO (Active Data Objects) as the primary means of connecting to any SQL database or ODBC (Open Database Connectivity) compliant database. ODBC continues to be supported using the OLE DB provider.

• By using ADO, the Database Connection properties can now be stored directly within the component or in an external file. For increased security, passwords and other sensitive database connection properties are also stored within the component file.

• Link database fields to HotDocs template variables. Use the Database Editor to create and edit database components.

• Sort and filter database records to make it easier to select desired records.

• Retrieve multiple records from a database using the HotDocs REPEAT instruction. This can be useful if you need to produce several individualized documents using the same HotDocs template.

• Select an option that assembles the document using information from the database automatically—with no input from the end-user.