These dialog boxes are the heart of HotDocs. They not only bring the necessary information into the document, they manipulate and control that information. For instance, if the variable calls for a number, you can easily set up the dialog box to only accept a number that falls within a certain range. You can also include formulas that are based on one or more variables. For example, you could set up the fee agreement so that you give an estimate of the time that will be required on the project, and HotDocs computes the retainer.
Variables can also trigger the insertion of optional paragraphs.
The aforesaid time estimate could lead to the retainer amount, which, if greater than a set amount, would trigger the insertion of a paragraph stating that the client must maintain a certain balance. Sometimes when using a template it makes more sense to group certain variables together, out of order. HotDocs keeps track of which variables have been answered, in whatever order. HotDocs also makes it possible to create templates for people that may have little knowledge of the document they are creating. Each dialog box can have an accompanying help file.