Create a New QCDS Template from a PDF

Create a QCDS Template by giving it a name and uploading a PDF. QCDS stores that upload as the Template's own protected document source, prepares the canonical PDF, creates the initial draft Template version, and opens the visual builder for field placement.

Before You Start

  • Use a finished PDF whose page order and layout are ready for field placement.
  • Convert DOC, DOCX, or other source formats to PDF before upload.
  • Use an authorized QCDS workspace account with permission to create Templates and upload documents.

Create the Template

  1. Open the QCDS frontend workspace and choose Templates.
  2. Click the control to add a new Template.
  3. Enter the Template name.
  4. Under Upload PDF, select the PDF that belongs to this Template.
  5. Click Create & Open.

Every new Template upload is stored as that Template's unique source document. QCDS does not merely point the Template at a mutable browser upload.

What QCDS Does with the PDF

The upload enters QCDS document intake, where the actual file type and safety rules are checked. The source is stored as protected immutable data and QCDS prepares the canonical PDF/page information used by the builder. The new Template is then created with an initial draft version tied to that prepared document version.

When preparation succeeds, QCDS opens the visual builder automatically.

Prepare the Template in the Builder

  1. Confirm the PDF pages render correctly.
  2. Add the required signature, initials, text, date, checkbox, or other supported fields.
  3. Assign signer roles or saved Contact defaults where useful.
  4. Set each field's required state and other properties.
  5. Run Template validation and correct real errors.
  6. Publish the Template when the reusable preparation is ready.

Publication validates the document and field configuration. You can still finalize Contact/person mapping when creating the actual Request, so a reusable Template does not have to be permanently tied to one set of signers.

Alternative: Start from the Documents Area

If the PDF already exists in QCDS Documents and has a prepared canonical version, use Use in New Template. QCDS creates a Template from that exact immutable document version and opens the builder.

Verify the Result

  • The Template appears in the Templates list.
  • The builder displays the correct PDF pages.
  • Validation reports no blocking document or field errors.
  • After publishing, using the Template creates a new Request draft without changing the reusable Template.

Community Discussion

Want to compare workflows, share practical tips, or discuss how you use this QCDS feature? Visit the QC Digital Signature Community. For private support, bug reports, account-specific issues, or feature requests, use the QuantaCade support system.