Microsoft InfoPath Overview

InfoPath is a software designed for handling XML documents. Initially launched in 2003, it has undergone several updates, with the latest version released in 2013, representing a more modern iteration.

Table of contents

Functionality

InfoPath facilitates the gathering and processing of data essential for constructing interactive diagrams. The program seamlessly integrates with XML schemas and related services, enabling easy inclusion of vital information into various processes. Its utility is particularly significant in business settings, offering tools to streamline numerous operational procedures.

Concept

InfoPath forms operate on the principle of separating form templates from their data. A form template, identified by the .xsn extension, defines the structure and design of a form. On the other hand, form data is stored in XML files, providing the specific information that populates the form.

Microsoft Office InfoPath Features

Develop Forms with Ribbon Interface

The ribbon interface simplifies form development by organizing commands into tabs corresponding to specific tasks, facilitating quicker customization.

Work with Sharper Shapes using InfoPath Filler

InfoPath Filler provides an intuitive user interface for filling out forms, akin to working with documents. Forms can be saved locally and accessed offline, enhancing flexibility.

Utilize Client Capabilities

InfoPath offers robust text formatting, autocorrect, table and figure support, and spell checking, enhancing user experience and productivity.

Publish Forms

Forms can be published directly from the Ribbon Quick Access Toolbar or Microsoft Office Backstage View, serving as a centralized hub for form-related actions.

Create Forms for SharePoint Lists

Users can effortlessly design forms based on regular or external SharePoint lists with a simple click, automating form creation and customization.

Autonomous Form Filling

Available in Microsoft SharePoint Workspace, forms can be completed online or offline and seamlessly integrated with data from SharePoint lists, enhancing accessibility and usability.

Deploy Forms as Part of Automated Processes

SharePoint Server and SharePoint Designer enable the deployment of forms as part of automated processes, facilitating routing organization and notifications.

Development of Modular, Extensible, and Portable Solutions

InfoPath allows for the creation of modular, extensible, and portable solutions with minimal or no coding, enhancing workflow efficiency and flexibility.

Utilize Functional Web Forms

InfoPath web forms now offer many features previously exclusive to the client application, enhancing compatibility and accessibility across different browsers.

Manage Forms on the Server

New SharePoint servicing engine rules ensure correct configuration of InfoPath forms, with command-line shell and Windows PowerShell scripting language included for efficient form management.

Enhancing Form Functionality

Microsoft Office InfoPath facilitates the addition of code to forms, allowing for more robust data collection tailored to specific business processes. By utilizing Visual Studio Tools and straightforward publishing capabilities, users can enhance forms to interact seamlessly with various applications.

Integration with Business Systems

InfoPath supports integration with SharePoint Server Business Connectivity Services (BCS), which expands the functionalities of Office applications by enabling a seamless connection to business systems. This architecture assists in managing user access and data interactions effectively.

Web Services and Data Retrieval

InfoPath has adapted to modern web standards by supporting REST web services, enabling developers to retrieve XML data using URL parameters. This feature allows for dynamic adjustment of parameters without the need for coding, streamlining data retrieval processes.

Form Embedding and Interaction

With the introduction of the InfoPath Form web part in SharePoint Server, users can now easily embed forms onto web pages. These forms can interact with other web parts to send and receive data, enhancing user interaction on ASP.NET pages without complex coding.

Usage and Accessibility

InfoPath is designed for power users and developers to create complex electronic forms quickly and cost-effectively, supporting diverse organizational needs from departmental to enterprise-wide applications. It simplifies connections to necessary resources and information, enabling efficient and rapid data collection.

Operational Impact and Form Management

InfoPath significantly impacts operational efficiencies by allowing the creation of modular, expandable, and portable solutions that require minimal coding. It enables the publishing of forms in accessible locations for user interaction, supporting various subsequent actions like data submission or storage.

Conclusion

Overall, Microsoft Office InfoPath stands as a critical tool in enhancing organizational efficiency through advanced data collection, form management, and integration capabilities.

FAQ

What is Microsoft InfoPath?

Microsoft InfoPath is a software designed for handling XML documents, facilitating data collection and processing.

What are some key features of Microsoft Office InfoPath?

Some key features include the ability to develop forms with a ribbon interface, work with sharper shapes using InfoPath Filler, utilize client capabilities for text formatting and spell checking, publish forms, create forms for SharePoint lists, deploy forms as part of automated processes, and more.

Who can benefit from using Microsoft InfoPath?

Microsoft InfoPath is designed for power users and developers to create complex electronic forms quickly and cost-effectively, supporting diverse organizational needs from departmental to enterprise-wide applications.

How does Microsoft InfoPath impact operational efficiencies?

Microsoft InfoPath significantly impacts operational efficiencies by allowing the creation of modular, expandable, and portable solutions that require minimal coding. It enables the publishing of forms in accessible locations for user interaction, supporting various subsequent actions like data submission or storage.

What are some integration capabilities of Microsoft Office InfoPath?

Microsoft InfoPath supports integration with SharePoint Server Business Connectivity Services (BCS) and modern web standards like REST web services, enabling seamless connection to business systems and dynamic data retrieval processes.