Six-Figure Freelancer Blog

Review: Adobe Acrobat 9 brings multimedia to PDFs

Almost any computer user can read Adobe Acrobat files using the Adobe Acrobat Reader. And many computer users can convert word processing and other files to Acrobat files using free downloads, such as CutePDF Writer and other conversion applications. However, if you want to experience the full power of creating multi-media Acrobat files, you have purchase the full version of Adobe Acrobat.

The latest release, Adobe Acrobat 9, makes it possible for users to create Acrobat files and collaborate with coworkers, partners, and customers, in the office or even worldwide across company networks and the Web.

While there are an array of new features in Acrobat 9, entertainment industry and production companies might be particularly interested in the ability to convert popular video formats, such as QuickTime (MOV) and Windows Media Video (WMV), to Adobe Flash for easy integration into Portable Document Format (PDF) files. All content in the PDF file can be viewed online or offline by anyone with the free Adobe Reader 9, eliminating the need to use additional video players and overcoming problems communicating across platforms.

Acrobat 9’s native support for Flash means users can create interactive PDF portfolios that unify rich video, 3D models, maps, and other engaging content. Multimedia content can be combined with a variety of static document types such as spreadsheets, text documents and e-mail to enhance pitches, proposals and promotional material. And if you are working with partners in other locations, cities or even countries, which happens a great deal with complex development deals, you can use collaboration features in Acrobat 9 to participate in real-time, digital document reviews.

So what do you do with this? A pitch or proposal can be set up to better engage prospective investor with tailored information that moves effortlessly from video clips or trailers to images and bios to graphic budgets and other information.

While learning how to use any new application can take time, Adobe allows you to choose from a variety of stylish templates to quickly integrate content, define navigation, and add polish to PDFs. You can easily alter and customize templates with details like logos, color schemes, photos, and contact information.

The Acrobat 9 family includes Acrobat 9 Pro Extended, Acrobat 9 Pro, and Acrobat 9 Standard, all offering an array of new and enhanced features. You can read more about Adobe Acrobat Pro Extended online.