I created a document library (no specific source templates needed or wanted). The purpose of library is simply to provide a central location for frontline staff to access information (processes, Q&As, letters, etc.) to do their jobs.
I have several Customer Letters (.dotx -Word Template files) saved as items in the library. My problem is that the letters are opening in read-only with prompt for users to checkout template file (overwrite template!).
This prevents several users from accessing letters at same time AND compromises the integrity of the templates.
I do not want the resulting letters (new documents) created by staff to be saved to, or linked to, the SharePoint library. They will be printed for mailing to customer and also may be electronically sent to a separate application for archiving purposes.
What I need is for users to access the letters (either directly from library or a web part) as an entirely NEW document (i.e. 'Document1') based on whichever doc template was selected.
I have not found a solution as most other enquiries accept that the library will be dedicated to saving documents based on a specific template in SharePoint. I need Word to be my template manager, not SharePoint.
Is there a way to NOT open template file, but create New based on .dotx?