PDF portfolios
Please note: you can only view PDF portfolios in your PDF reader application. If you try to view it in your browser, you'll only see the cover page and index.
What is a PDF portfolio?
A PDF portfolio is a sophisticated way to organize multiple PDF documents into a single file.
Imagine it as a digital binder that houses all the individual documents you need, but unlike a regular folder on your computer, you access everything through one file in Adobe Acrobat. When you open a PDF portfolio, you’ll see a list or an 'index' of all the included documents. This index has hyperlinks that allow you to click on a document name and immediately view that document in a new tab within the portfolio. Each document remains a separate entity within this container, preserving its original format and integrity.
This setup is particularly useful for maintaining organization and ensuring that all related documents are easily accessible in one place, without having to open multiple files separately.
How to download the PDF portfolio
- Once your binder is ready, click 'Build'. It'll take a couple minutes to build and once it's ready, there will be a green dot on the notification (bell) icon on the left sidebar.
- Click the notification icon, then click "view" next to the uppermost notification.
- Select the top option - Single-file binder (portfolio)
- Save to your desktop, or send it as a download link.
Pros and Cons of different binder type
Single-File Closing Binder
- Control and Organization: Ensures all documents are presented in a consistent format, reducing the risk of missing documents.
- Simplicity: One file to manage and distribute.
- File Size: The file can become very large, making it difficult to email or share via some platforms.
- Single Access Point: All documents are contained in one file, making it easy to store and reference.
- Ease of Use: The index and bookmarks provide straightforward navigation through the documents.
- File Size: Large files can be cumbersome to download or open on some devices.
- Search Limitations: Although bookmarks help, searching within a large PDF can be slower compared to smaller individual files.
PDF Portfolio Closing Binder
- Organization: Keeps documents separate while still presenting them in a unified format.
- Professional Presentation: Offers a polished and organized appearance.
- Software Requirements: Requires specific PDF software that supports portfolio creation.
- No Header: If you have a header structure in your binder index, it won't be included in the portfolio index. It will still be included on the index file SimplyAgree builds, but that index file won't be hyperlinked.
- Ease of Access: Can access and download individual documents as needed.
- Navigation: The index makes it easy to locate and open specific documents.
- Professional Appearance: Presents a well-organized and professional format.
- Software Requirements: Requires PDF reader software that supports portfolios, which may not be standard on all devices.
- Learning Curve: May be less intuitive for clients unfamiliar with PDF portfolios.
Multi-File Closing Binder
- Flexibility: Easy to update individual documents without affecting others.
- Smaller File Sizes: Individual documents are smaller, facilitating easier sharing and storage.
- Potential for Errors: Higher risk of documents being misplaced or hyperlinks breaking.
- Selective Access: Clients can open only the documents they need.
- Standard Format: Compatible with any standard PDF reader and file compression software.
- Organization: Less cohesive presentation compared to a single-file or portfolio binder.
- Navigation: Requires managing multiple files, which can be cumbersome for some users.
- Zip File Management: Clients must be comfortable unzipping files and navigating the extracted contents.