Best way to extract data from Word document

Hi there I'm willing to take suggestions on the best way to solve this problem. A client is in the recruitment business. Candidates send him resumes in various formats (e.g. plain text, hardcopy, email, Word etc). He then extracts the data he wants from the CVs and saves them in his own resume template in Microsoft Word (see attached for general layout). I want to know the best way to extract this data into a database (preferably MySQL but Access will do). However, it's not straightforward as the resumes are only semi-structured. I need a way of structuring these resumes in Word (e.g. perhaps through a template). Then I need to export the data to either MySQL or Access. I need to extract the resume data into the following fields: firstname lastname reference_no reside status qualifications employment (OK to group all experience into one field) Now, **I know the resulting database will not be normalised**. That's not important in this case because I'm only interested in extracting the data (I will then manipulate it as necessary and insert it into a normalised database I have waiting. I will then discard the non-normalised table when I'm finished with it.) I've tried using Word's built-in Form features but it's pretty restrictive, i.e. if you choose to "protect" the form, you lose all formatting abilities. Since my client wants to send these CVs to other businesses, they should look presentable and he should have control over formatting. **If you feel you can do this but your bid is higher than what we're offering, please bid anyway and we will consider your proposal.** Thanks ## Deliverables 1) Complete and fully-functional working program(s) in executable form as well as complete source code of all work done. 2) Installation package that will install the software (in ready-to-run condition) on the platform(s) specified in this bid request. 3) Exclusive and complete copyrights to all work purchased. (No GPL, GNU, 3rd party components, etc. unless all copyright ramifications are explained AND AGREED TO by the buyer on the site per the coder's Seller Legal Agreement). ## Platform Windows XP