Choosing the right formatProblems with PDFs

PDFs are great for print, but on the web they pose many problems:

1) Fixed size

Nearly 70% of our users visit on small screens. 📱

Reading PDFs on small screens is much harder because of their fixed size.

It involves lots of pinching and swiping to zoom, pan and scroll.

This is a nuisance for most people. However, it can be a significant barrier 🚧 for people with physical disabilties, low vision or learning difficulties.

2) Out of date information

Once somebody downloads a PDF, they have a static copy.

Users won't see any of your updates in their copy.

Sensitive information published by mistake cannot be removed from downloaded copies.

People can spread false information by sharing a copy that they think is current.

3) Inconsistent brand

Authors use their own style which can detract from the corporate brand.

This means different:

• Structure and layout
• Colours
• Fonts
• Text size and alignment

This creates an uncertain experience between pages which can be confusing for users.

4) Context change

PDFs need special software to open, that work differently to web browsers.

support and how they work varies between PDF readers and web browsers.

When a user opens a PDF, they leave the website and lose access to familiar functions such as search and navigation.

5) Resource intensive

PDFs take more time and effort to make accessible and maintain.

Many programs can export to PDF, but each in their own (often inaccessible) way.

After export, PDFs need testing and fixing in Acrobat Pro. This requires time, a license and good knowledge of accessibility and Acrobat.

If the source document changes and gets re-exported, all tests and fixes need redoing.

6) Duplication

Often:

• Content created for print is made available for download. It typically mirrors the information on the website and even links to the site.
• PDFs are published alongside accessible web versions of the same content.

Both scenarios lead to duplication and complicate the task of maintaining accurate and up-to-date information.

7) Technical Restrictions

PDFs require special software to view them. Users may not have permission or know how to install them.

PDF downloads can be blocked in corporate enviromments for security.

8) Missing metrics

PDF use can't be monitored like a webpage can.

For webpage content, authors can see the bigger picture including:

• Total user and view counts
• When and where
• How people interact with content
• Technical data (e.g. browser, device)

This means authors can make targeted improvements to content.