PDF-UX: Collections
PDF collections rely on the inherent ability of PDF (starting with PDF 1.3 in 1998) to include embedded files of any type. The ability to package multiple embedded files together within a PDF offers a user-friendly alternative to ZIP archives, and allow authors to define custom attributes, sort order, and a preferred layout for optimal navigation.
Triggered by our own experience in preparing the cheat sheet collection, this article explores the capabilities of PDF collections and strengthens the case for all PDF implementations to do a better job at supporting collection creation and viewing. PDF collections are already common in applications such as AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction), but the broader use of collections is growing. Just to take two examples:
- the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), an agency of the US federal government, has just updated its guidance for federal agencies to address PDF collections.
- the soon-to-be-published Email Archiving in PDF specification makes use of collections to provide a means to capture rendered emails and preserve source data together in a hierarchically structured portable package.
Read on to learn about what Collections can offer in conjunction with supportive software.
PDF Week Boston 2025 – April 28 – May 2, 2025
The PDF Association is pleased to invite our members to PDF Week Boston 2025.
