It is highly recommended that you consider the purpose of your content before creating and or sharing it on your website. For example, if the content is intended for printing, formats like PDF would be more suitable. On the other hand, text designed for a web page is optimized for digital consumption, focusing on mobile usability, SEO, and accessibility. This type of content may not adapt well to print formats. When content is produced using document applications like MS Word or Google Docs, it is formatted with elements such as page margins and breaks that aid in printing. In contrast, websites are crafted primarily for browsers, which means the layout of web content may not be as effective for printing. Likewise, content designed for print—such as PDFs and postcard images—often does not translate well to online use, as it usually lacks mobile optimization, SEO, and accessibility.
For instance, if you’re designing a marketing postcard intended for print distribution at an open house, it doesn't necessarily follow that uploading an image of that postcard to your website is a wise decision. The text within that image might be hard to read on mobile devices, and it may not be recognized by search engines or screen readers. Just because a piece of graphic design is meticulously and aesthetically crafted, it doesn't guarantee that showcasing it on your website will be effective or visually appealing.
At times, this may require sharing BOTH types of content when necessary. For instance, if you have a significant upcoming event, such as a Golf Outing or Fundraiser, you would create promotional marketing materials, such as images, postcards, and flyers. You might decide to add a Page or Popup on your website featuring essential details posted as text, while also providing links or files for viewing, downloading, and printing the promotional materials.
Understanding this concept is essential, as its impact on your audience is considerable. If your content isn’t optimized for mobile devices, you are limiting access for a significant number of your visitors, given that mobile usage represents a substantial portion of web traffic. Moreover, if the information isn’t accessible to search engines, you’re missing the chance to reach a wider audience. Insufficient accessibility not only dissuades engagement from users dependent on accessibility tools but could also result in potential public relations and legal issues. Additionally, it’s important to know your audience and community; if you are creating material intended for print, providing it as a document like a PDF specifically designed for print would be advantageous.