Document generation vs. PDF generator in workflow automation
Understanding the difference between Document generation and PDF generator task types in Nutrient Workflow Automation is key to building efficient, automated workflows.
Using the right task type helps you:
- Reduce errors and formatting issues
- Automate repetitive document creation
- Save time across teams
- Maintain flexibility for future changes
Whether you’re creating official PDFs or editable Office documents, Nutrient enables automated document processing without requiring technical expertise.
Video overview
Watch this video to get an overview of how the Document generation and PDF generator task types work and when you should use them.
What’s covered in this video
- What the PDF generator task does and when to use it
- How Document generation supports dynamic document creation
- Real-world examples of when each task type is most effective
- Tips for choosing the right task based on your goals
Technical comparison
| Feature | Document Generation | PDF Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Template format | DOCX files | PDF forms |
| Output formats | PDF, DOCX | PDF only |
| Grid data support | Yes, full support | Limited |
| Template creation | Word editor | PDF form software |
| Dynamic content | Variable replacement | Form field filling |
| File size | Larger files | Smaller files |
| Editing capability | Recipients can edit DOCX | Final PDF only |
When to choose Document generation
Document generation works best for these scenarios:
- Employee onboarding packets that HR teams will customize for different departments
- Contract templates requiring legal team review and modifications before finalization
- Dynamic reports with variable data tables that change based on user input
- Proposal documents where sales teams need to edit content after generation
- Training materials that instructors will modify for specific audiences
When to choose PDF generator
PDF generator is ideal when you need:
- Certificate generation for completed training programs or certifications
- Invoice creation for accounting systems with fixed formatting requirements
- Official forms requiring signatures without allowing content changes
- Compliance documents that must maintain exact formatting and content
- Receipt generation where consistency and tamper-proofing are essential
Before you start
To use either task type, you need:
- Nutrient Workflow Automation Platform license with document automation features
- Template creation software (Microsoft Word for Document generation, PDF form editor for PDF generator)
- Understanding of your document requirements and intended audience
- Access to the data sources that will populate your templates