Save the Earth; Embrace the PDF – How to Save Files as a PDF
The pdf (portable document format) has become one of the most popular formats for distributing files on the internet – invoices, press releases, brochures, etc. Like a printed document, the receiver of the pdf will view the document as the creator composed and doesn’t have to own the same program the creator has to view the content. Unlike paper, though, a pdf doesn’t waste paper and resources. It’s digital and can be distributed by email and throughout the web. It can be saved into a file folder for storage or popped on a jump drive for distribution. You can save money on printing and shipping and that’s why I’m devoting an entire week to pdf tips and tricks!
First things first, how do you create a pdf? If you are a mac user, then all of your printing functions and file programs have had a native “save as pdf” option under the file menu since 2004. The following videos show you how to save a file as a pdf on your computer. The video is of a word document, but the process is the same across the board.
If you are running Microsoft Office 2007 or better on a pc and don’t have the pdf add-on, you can get it here: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=4d951911-3e7e-4ae6-b059-a2e79ed87041&displaylang=en and the video shows you how to save a word document as pdf using your new option.
If you don’t currently have the ability to create a pdf, it’s ok. There are many options out there to help. The first thing you need to do is download adobe reader for free by visiting get.adobe.com/reader. This download will enable you to view, print and collaborate on pdf files. This pdf converter link will show you a list of other pdf converters available for pc users.
Bottom line, being using the pdf instead of traditional print can save you $$ on printing and shipping costs and possible make the Earth a little happier too.
Follow the “Save the Earth; Embrace the PDF” series:
