domino automation

I can write a VB pgm that completely automates MS Outlook.  Add  in database
links to the AS400 and I can write a VB appl that prompts the user for the
email msg text, retrieves the email addr from a file on the as400, then,
using automation, composes and sends the email msg thru the Outlook email
client.

Can a domino client provide the same automation services that Outlook
provides ?

Also, does the Domino server allow a non domino client ( like Outlook ) to
be used to send and rcv email thru the Domino server ?


Thanks,

Steve Richter