I have been working on a project recently where the customer has requested the use of PDF files in the content. This actually happens frequently, especially when the customer is not that web savvy. It usually also involves a lengthy discussion on the use of PDF files and the impact to the visitor.

But it has caused me to sit back and make an attempt to understand the perspective of the customer.

Using a PDF file or two is not necessarily a web design sin. In fact, there are points to defend the use of a PDF file. So I thought it might be beneficial to highlight the pros and cons of using PDF files in your website content.