Avoid PDFs
PDFs are not ideal for web use and we should reduce reliance on them. Before publishing one, you should ask yourself if the content can be converted to a web page instead.
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PDFs are not ideal for web use and we should reduce reliance on them. Before publishing one, you should ask yourself if the content can be converted to a web page instead.
Last updated
Web page content allows users to adjust text and color settings. This is necessary for some people with visual impairments. Many PDFs are also not compatible with screen reader assistive technology. Additionally, many users are accessing the web with their mobile devices. Downloading a PDF can be a drain on mobile data. If your content is important to your audiences, the best bet is to put it in a web page format.
PDFs and other documents are much more likely to become out of date and forgotten. As content authors come and go, PDFs may continue to float around the website. Having inaccurate information about important things like school policies online is not just a disservice to your audiences but could potentially become a legal issue.
If a user finds a PDF via Google search, that PDF will automatically open a new window or download rather than directing them to the website where it lives. There is no context or breadcrumbs to help the user navigate to additional relevant information. They miss out on finding what they need, and you miss the opportunity to share key messages.
There are some instances where it makes sense to create a PDF (for example, static and time-bound content, such as meeting minutes). If you have a clear use case for a PDF, make sure to read about how best to link to them: