PDF is a fantastic file format that is familiar to so many. Yet many do not fully know or appreciate the program that PDF’s originate from. As such, Word documents are the most commonly used file format for most documents.
PDF, also known as Portable Document File, is the product of file software provider Adobe, who has become as well known in the world of IT as Microsoft. Adobe has a suite of products aimed at meeting the needs of users based in many different professions. Their range includes household favourites such as Photoshop and Flash, but more complex programs are available by Adobe, such as Flex and Dreamweaver, web design and development tools, ColdFusion, a server simulating program, as well as more programmes that concentrate on art and animation, such as After Effects and Illustrator.
Adobe has also produced Adobe Reader and Acrobat. These programmes are used to read, create and integrate PDF files. Ensuring you have the latest Acrobat or Reader version installed will ensure you can read all online PDF’s you encounter on different websites. The Adobe Reader download is free and available on Adobe’s website; simply browse the menus to access the free download.
Adobe Reader is great for home use, however, if you are a web developer, and enjoy using Adobe products, then you’ll be looking more for the expert assistance of Acrobat 9, available in either the Standard, Pro or Extended additions, like may other of the Adobe products.
Adobe Reader 9, the latest version, will allow you to create and view PDF’s at your leisure. If you have produced something in Word, give it a professional feel by converting it to PDF in two mouse clicks! Headers and footers in a Word document look particularly smart when processed by Acrobat in forming the PDF.
PDF’s are ideal if your small business sends minutes of meetings to staff, as well as other business related documents, whether it’s internal or for use with clients. PDF’s are as easy to print from as Word documents. With this in mind, if you are currently job searching, make sure your employment history and online application stands out, and use a Portable Document File instead of a Word document. Everyone these days says they have basic IT skills, demonstrate yours by sending a PDF for your personal document.
If you are a writer, submitting samples via PDF makes your sample stand out, and is easy for the client to read and review. Different permissions can be assigned using Acrobat, so that any editors can make necessary changes and footnotes as they see fit, making the exchange of a growing and ever changing article easy.
With IT, you can make the most of your computer and time if you have the right tools for the job. A PDF creator and reader is, to me at least, as essential to your OS main accessories as an anti virus program. Ensure you can access all documents and download Reader or Acrobat today!