Any .dotm file created by Word is a Word template, by definition.

Macros will not be available from Dropbox unless you have no macro security at all. Word will only run macros that are in a document or template that is in some way trusted by the Trust Center. Macros and Building Blocks are often stored in a single template. Building Blocks, though can be stored in .dotx files as well as .dotm files. You do not need your .dotx files to be "trusted" to use building blocks they contain.

No contortions should be needed.

Both macros and building blocks can be stored in templates. Those templates can be attached to a document (often the source of the document's formatting) or can be global - available to any document. Again, I urge you to read Templates in Microsoft Word. I can't repeat it all here.

OK, I am subdued and educated.

I just loaded my .docm document, did a Save As to make it a .dotm template, and now it stores both macros and quickparts. I'm happy.

I misstated when I said "Although .dotm files are not templates, they can be (and I have) attached them as a template to my main document."

I meant to say .docm files can be attached to another document. Here's a snapshot of what used to show when I went into Options, Add-Ins, Manage, Templates, Go:




I was able to attach the .docm file after choosing "Attach" by selecting "All Word Files" instead of "All Word Templates." Thanks to your education, I realize I didn't need to do that, but use an equivalent .dotm file instead. But as you see above, the .docm is quasi-considered a template. In this mode, the macros work fine, but the quickparts do not save.

As regarding security, I have the document and template (.dotm) both in the Dropbox folder and they work fine. I am asked when loading the document to enable macros, and then it works fine. Should my security be tighter, and if so, how do I manage that?

In the meantime, BOTTOM LINE, you solved my problem. Many Thanks!!!

Never had anyone try to attach a document using that dialog. I just verified that it can be done in my version of Word 2010. I will probably play with it and see if it does that in Word 2003 and 2007 as well. I may have to add some things to my Templates page.

If these are AutoTexts used in multiple documents, consider loading the template as a global.