Why PDF are not the Best File Type for Downloads

They cannot be shared

PDF files are difficult and in some cases impossible to share on social media channels. Due to this, it is a more cumbersome effort for a user to download the PDF file and then attach it to an e-mail to send to friends/family to view. If we look at mobile devices, in most instances PDF files can be downloaded to view but not downloaded and stored so you cannot even send the file in an text/instant message to show it to others. This difficulty with sharing seriously hinders the versatility and usability of the PDF file in 2016.

They cannot be edited

It is also difficult to edit PDF files – even with the relevant software to allow you to do this. Therefore if you have five PDF files on your website and then change your company branding colours or motto etc., these five files would have to be recreated with these new elements included. For those who download your PDF files but only need certain parts of it, the lack of editing ability means that they cannot cut out or highlight the parts that they need.

They cannot sustain their popularity

We all know what PDF files are because of their popularity and usage over the years. Yet with a shift towards curated and mobile content, they have lost favour against ‘flashier’ content such as video, HTML newsletters and Google ads etc. With this paradigm shift (in the age of mobile and screenshots), the text and picture content contained within PDF files can be delivered and digested in more universal and less cumbersome ways today.

Talk to us here at Whelan Web Design for best practice guidance and support for your website. We can assist you with any elements that you wish and also help you reach your website and business aims and goals.