Why convert a document to a PDF for the web?
If you upload a MS Word, Excel, Publisher, or PowerPoint file, your web site visitor needs to have those programs installed on their computer to open it. Since these programs tend to be business applications, not all users will be able to open your files.
The solution is convert your downloadable files into a more universally readable format. The de-facto industry standard is the PDF (portable document format). Every web browser can open a PDF, and the Acrobat Reader software is free to download - so this format makes sense.
But how do you turn MS Word, Excel, Publisher or PowerPoint document into a PDF?
For MS Office 2007 Documents
This is now a standard feature of MS Office 2007. See the "Save As" options. (File | Save as).
If you do not have Office 2007 see the next paragraph.
Convert any document to a PDF
Install software
There are a bunch of free converters. We like PrimoPDF from www.primopdf.com because it is full function, does not expire after 90 days, and does not watermark your documents with their logo/ Download and install the software and follow their directions.
TIP - it installs as a print driver. So once you download an install it you can save anything as a PDF (Choose File | Print) from any program and you will see Primo PDF as one of your "printer" choices.
Convert online
We also like http://www.pdfonline.com/convert-pdf/ for the same reasons, and this may be more convenient if you use a number of computers.
Use a Widget
Search for a widget at www.widgetbox.com. (Search Keyword PDF Converter)
Article ID: 42, Created On: 10/24/2009, Modified: 2/7/2010