I just posted an article on ComputerWorldUK and have been surprised by the response[1]. I think there may be an opportunity here for a slow-burn, viral campaign around hybrid PDFs. I realise they remain problematic for all sort of reasons, but they have some distinct advantages:
- They contain ODF, so to edit them you need an ODF compliant program
- The programs that can edit them are currently all free software
- They condition people to avoid other file formats like DOC & DOCX
- By pointing at PDF, the appearance of "taking sides" in the ODF:OOXML dialectic is minimised
Would promoting hybrid PDFs make an interesting addition to the PDF reader campaign?
Along with the article, I created a sample editable PDF with instructions on how to make more of them[2]. I'd welcome your input on ways to make that document more appealing and more likely to be forwarded to friends with a delighted "you have to see this, it is The Answer!!" I think it should remain generic, neutral and unbranded so that as many people as possible can feel they "own" it, but otherwise I am very open to all suggestions. Matthias, how about quietly including this file in the DFD activities?
S.