I have a bunch of template letters that I use in Microsoft Word. Basically the letters have some fillable controls throughout the letter via Developer. This makes writing letters very quick.

In order to ensure no one saves over the template when filling out the letter, I made them read only (right click on the file, properties, checked off 'read only'). It worked great.

My org just updated Microsoft 365 and now it doesn't work. Since its read only, it won't let me even put information into the fillable controls. Previously, I could but I just couldn't save it.



Any suggestions on how to get around this?

If you save the documents as templates and create new documents from them, as intended, the issue of overwriting the template shouldn't arise so there is no need to make them read only.

If you are using content controls, add editors to the controls and protect the templates as read only and then you will only be able to type in the controls. Insert Content Control Add-In will do that for all the controls in a single operation.

__________________
Graham Mayor - MS MVP (Word) (2002-2019)
Visit my web site for more programming tips and ready made processes www.gmayor.com

Thank you! Both options worked!

Templates in Microsoft Word
Word Content Controls by Greg Maxey