Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of alternatives when distributing a document online

What will be an ideal response?

Answer: A report can be distributed as a native file – in its original program such as Word, or as a PDF file. PDF files are the most common format for distribution electronically because the documents are often easier to design than web pages. The documents can be printed ad stored on the audiences computer, making them durable in that they will not disappear when a web address changes. Audiences can be required to submit contact information before downloading a PDF document, allowing the company to track people interest in the information and to market additional content and services to them. Finally, with the right software, videos can be added to PDF files. However, web-based reports also offer advantages. Readers can browse through sections of a report without taking the time to download it. Web-based reports can be more interactive, with links to multimedia content and animated data display. Finally, reports can be updated frequently, without republishing the PDF.