Configuring the Letter Data Source

This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for configuring the Letter Data Source in LibreOffice, a crucial step before creating letters with ACE. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Install LibreOffice

LibreOffice, an open-source (free) application equipped with a text editor, serves as the supported platform for modifying your ACE letter and invoice templates.

• Download and install LibreOffice from the official website.

Step 2: Download and Register ACE’s Letter Data Source

The “Letter Data Source” is a specific spreadsheet obtained by downloading it from ACE through the Help → Layout →Letter Data Source menu. This spreadsheet comprises tables and fields. In the context of letter creation using LibreOffice, these fields act as placeholders, allowing users to dynamically insert information from ACE into their documents.

1. Open any account in ACE to download the letter data source; opening an account with relevant data allows for testing and template validation, helping identify and select desired fields.

2. Navigate to Help → Layout → Letter Data Source.

3. In the sidebar, click on "Download Letter Data Source."

   1. Save the downloaded file (default name: ACE.ods) to your computer, noting its location.

Step 3: Register the Database

1. Open LibreOffice:

   1. File → New →Database

2. A Database Wizard will popup:

   1. Choose “Select Database” on the left section.

   2. Choose “Connect to an existing database” and select “Spreadsheet” from the dropdown.

3. Follow the prompts:

   1. Next → Browse (select ACE.ods) → Next → Finish.

   2. Change the file name to "ACE.ods" and remember its location.

Step 4: Finalize the Process

When finished, go to File → Exit to conclude your session.

Step 5: Keep the Database for Future Use

Remember to keep the ACE.odb database for future letter editing. Repeat the registration process for each computer used for letter editing.

Step 6: Update Letter Database

• Each time you add new Forms to your ACE system, download the letter database again.

• Each time a new field is available, download the letter database again.

• Save it in the same location with the same name ("ACE.ods").

• Confirm overwriting if prompted to maintain the connection with the ACE.odb database.

Tip: Organize with an ACE Letters Folder

Enhance your workflow by creating a dedicated ACE Letters folder on your computer. This folder is ideal for storing both the ACE.ods database and your ACE letters. By centralizing these files, you ensure easy access and efficient management. Simply set up the folder in a location of your choice, and maintain a well-organized repository for all your ACE-related documents.