While there are any number of programs that allow for the creation of PDF files - including free online conversion services and the "Save as PDF" option built into Microsoft Word - there are far fewer programs that can effectively work with PDF documents once they are created. PDF forms in particular are a problem - with fields that can't be filled in online, or that fill in only with strange and mismatched font sizes and colors. Not to mention the inability to insert a scanned signature into the document.That's where a utility like NitroPDF Pro 7 comes in handing. Sure, you could simply buy Adobe's Acrobat program. But that software starts at $299, compared to $99 for NitroPDF Pro. Once Adobe had its Acrobat format certified as an ISO standard, it opened the door for competitive products at a better price point. NitroPDF Pro handles the relatively simple chore of creating a PDF document from a variety of file types and scanned documents. But where it shines is in its ability to open a PDF file for editing, insertion of new or additional pages, and the ability to insert a graphic signature file into the document.

We tested the capabilities on a number of forms, including the IRS Form W-9. On the W-9, it was a simple matter to update old information, drop in a date (not permitted on the original form) and add a signature. We even printed the signature in blue ink for a touch of realism. In a matter of seconds, we had a strong print version that we could use for years to come by simply updating the date.

The newest version 7 sports a new interface based on the Microsoft Office 10 "ribbon bar" structure. In addition, it features a new, faster rendering engine; the ability to redact or remove sensitive information, including images; integration with popular Document Management Systems that include Microsoft Sharepoint, Interwoven WorkSite and iManage, Microsoft SharePoint, OpenText Livelink ECM, Worldox GX and others; digital signature profiles; and the ability to automatically edit and reflow text in paragraphs.

The convert function allows translation to a number of formats, including batches of PDFs to Word or Excel files, images, or plain text. There's also a Stamp Signature tool, which captures, stores, and overlays a handwritten signature on PDF files, and even password-protects your saved signatures so other users can't gain access.  Our tests of conversion from a PDF to Word focused on documents with integrated images, corporate news releases, brochures and legal documents. In every case, the result was a clean, editable document that retained the look and structure of the original.

Australian-born Nitro has carved a strong niche for itself in the US document management market with an excellent product that allows for the editing, conversion, enhancement and redaction of PDF documents. All of this is done at an economical price point, making the software ideal for use in small firms and home offices.

Nitro
San Francisco, Calif.
www.nitroPDF.com
(415)  651-4700
Price: $119.99 per individual license; introductory price, $99.99 per license during November. A free, fully functional 14-day trial is available for download at www.nitropdf.com. Nitro's Enterprise Licensing Program (ELP) offers discounted volume licensing for businesses and workgroups alongside prioritized support and dedicated account service.