Docassemble vs DocMake

Docassemble is a free, open-source platform for guided interviews and document assembly. An interview can produce downloadable or emailed PDF, RTF or DOCX files, submit applications, interact with APIs or provide information. Authors build interviews with YAML, Markdown and Python logic, and can make questions depend on what information is still needed. Templates can use DOCX or PDF files, with a Word add-in for DOCX workflows. Other listed capabilities include touchscreen signatures, chat, screen sharing, remote screen control, AI, SMS, email, fax, OCR, multilingual interviews and multiuser applications. Developers can extend interviews with Python and connect third-party applications through the API. Deployment options include Docker, Docker Compose, Helm and installation without Docker; the maker recommends Docker. The software has no usage fees, but an internet-hosted server typically costs $10–$40 per month or more. Interview answers are encrypted in the SQL database unless multi_user is True; uploaded and assembled documents are not encrypted.

DocMake generates Word (DOCX) and PDF files by merging data into reusable templates. Templates are made in a visual, Word-like editor with blanks, conditional sections, and repeatable content. Users can fill them in the app, share a form link that someone can complete without an account, or send JSON through the REST API. The same template produces native DOCX files and print-accurate PDFs with matching layouts. Existing DOCX files can be imported as editable templates while retaining headings, tables, headers, and footers. AI can draft template content, and templates can be translated into eight languages while keeping their structure and blanks. Team workspaces include shared templates, per-team API keys, custom fonts, and an audit log. The Free plan is an unlimited-time trial with no credit card required; it allows 1,000 documents per month and adds a DocMake footer. Pro costs $29 a month.