how do i create PDF dynamically

lamiller44 has asked for the wisdom of the Perl Monks concerning the following question:

i am trying to create a dynamic 3 column PDF file. i have used PDF::Create in the past, but i don't think this will work well for what i need to do. i am retrieving a number of different data including text and images from a database. then i need to format the text and images vertically and horizontally. the number of images and the size of text will vary with each request. the content can also span multiple pages. the only thing that really remains the same is the fact that the format is 3 columns. really, i am just trying to determine which module is the best to use for this type of development...

Comment on how do i create PDF dynamically

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Re: how do i create PDF dynamically by sauoq (Abbot) on Oct 28, 2005 at 05:05 UTC
PDF::API2 -sauoq "My two cents aren't worth a dime.";	[reply]
Re^2: how do i create PDF dynamically by dragonchild (Archbishop) on Oct 28, 2005 at 14:01 UTC
PDF::Template, which now can use PDF::API2 as a rendering engine instead of being stuck with PDFlib. My criteria for good software: Does it work? Can someone else come in, make a change, and be reasonably certain no bugs were introduced?	[reply]
Re: how do i create PDF dynamically by ercparker (Hermit) on Oct 28, 2005 at 06:56 UTC
If you'll be working with html content, HTML::HTMLDoc might work for you.	[reply]
Re: how do i create PDF dynamically by tbone1 (Monsignor) on Oct 28, 2005 at 12:59 UTC
For those of us on OS X, you don't even need that. Create the document as you normally would. Then, in the GUI, click "File -> Print"; on the Print splash screen on the lower left, choose the option "Save as PDF". This isn't a perfect approach, but for many people, it eliminates the need for any other software. Neat, huh? (Come on, everyone, drink the kool-aid!) -- tbone1, YAPS (Yet Another Perl Schlub) And remember, if he succeeds, so what. - Chick McGee	[reply]
Re: how do i create PDF dynamically by ghenry (Vicar) on Oct 31, 2005 at 10:15 UTC
Try PDF::Reuse. It allows you to create a PDF template and add text on top in the positions you want. A lot simplier and very fast. See the tutorial for examples. Walking the road to enlightenment... I found a penguin and a camel on the way..... Fancy a yourname@perl.me.uk? Just ask!!!	[reply]