Automated file generation using a multifunction peripheral

A method of generating a file using a multifunction peripheral device, the method comprising:

• accessing a data source including data to be inserted into a plurality of files generated using a template and a data source;
• receiving user input identifying template elements that act as location placeholders within an electronic document for data from the data source;
• generating the template from the electronic document using the identified template elements;
• generating a preview of a file generated using the template and the data source, the preview visible on the display device;
• receiving selection of an output destination for the plurality of files generated using the template and the data source;
• generating the plurality of files using the template and the data source;
• and
• sending the plurality of files to the output destination.

Apparatus comprising a storage medium storing a program having instructions which when executed by a processor will cause the processor to:

• access a selected data source including data to be inserted into a plurality of files generated using a template and a data source;
• receive user input identifying template elements that act as location placeholders within an electronic document for data from the data source;
• generate a template from the electronic document using the identified template elements;
• generate a preview of a file generated using the template and the data source, the preview visible on the display device;
• receive selection of an output destination for the plurality of files generated using the template and the data source;
• generate the plurality of files using the template and the data source;
• and
• send the plurality of files to the output destination.