Used primarily as an acylating agent in organic synthesis, this compound is especially valuable in the preparation of amides and esters from amines and alcohols, respectively. Its reactivity makes it suitable for introducing the 4-(dimethylamino)benzoyl group in pharmaceutical intermediates. It is also employed in the development of dyes and photoinitiators due to the electron-donating nature of the dimethylamino group, which enhances conjugation and light absorption properties. In research settings, it serves as a derivatizing agent for analytical techniques such as HPLC, improving detectability through chromophore introduction. Handling requires caution due to its moisture sensitivity and potential to release hydrogen chloride.