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PDF As A Standard



I realize that Neil was asking about web-based PDF publishing, however, he
also mentioned that he had a TIF version of the documents. This is a topic
that needs some serious thought, especially in the archival e-recs circles.

PDF is quickly becoming a standard for web-based document publishing. It is
even becoming a standard for e-recs retention. Particularly when such
projects as VERS (Victorian Electronic Records Strategy),
http://home.vicnet.net.au/~provic/vers/, recommend PDF as the format of
choice for long-term preservation.

Granted PDF has some very good features, however, PDF is a completely
proprietary file format. While JPG and TIF could arguably be considered
proprietary, the companies/individuals that own the patents don't require
you to buy special software to create, publish and view the files.

In terms of long-term  storage and preservation (25, 50, 100, indefinite
years) I think PDF is an unwise choice of format. Adobe is a
well-established company, however, since they hold the key to the future of
PDF, I wouldn't be so quick to jump on the PDF bandwagon. TIF and JPG can be
used and viewed by MOST any graphics publication and browser on the market
today. PDF can't.


Maverick *gets off his soapbox b4 being pelted by fruit* Collier
Records Analyst
City of Bellevue
11511 Main Street
PO Box 90012
Bellevue, WA  98009-9012
mcollier@ci.bellevue.wa.us
425.452.5291
www.ci.bellevue.wa.us

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