I am an avid proponent of emailing and posting documents in PDF format. The main reason has to do with security – I don’t want the recipients to modify the document without my awareness. Yes, this can also be captured through Microsoft’s tracking feature, but with the release of Office 2007 I have to deal with compatibility issues and formats. The second reason has to do with document integrity – being a marketing professional, I want to make sure the end user sees the document exactly as I created it.
So, how do you convert a document into a PDF without expensive Adobe software? I suggest PrimoPDF. You can download the software for free at CNET. [A side note: CNET is a website for tech product reviews, news, and videos - like a free Consumer Reports for technology.] Once you download the software, follow these easy steps to convert your document:
- From any source (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) select File > Print
- Use the printer name drop-down menu to select PrimoPDF
- A pop-up box will appear with PrimoPDF instructions
- Choose the desired PDF settings and select a location to save the document with the “…” button
- Click Okay and wait for Adobe Reader (or other PDF reader program) to open a copy of the converted document
