Preface
24
Platform fulfills a set of requirements related to business process needs for the
global desktop user, including:
•
Preservation of document fidelity across the enterprise, independently of the
device, platform, and software
•
Merging of content from diverse sources—Web sites, word processing and
spreadsheet programs, scanned documents, photos, and graphics—into one
self-contained document while maintaining the integrity of all original source
documents
•
Real-time collaborative editing of documents from multiple locations or plat-
forms
•
Digital signatures to certify authenticity
•
Security and permissions to allow the creator to retain control of the document
and associated rights
•
Accessibility of content to those with disabilities
•
Extraction and reuse of content using other file formats and applications
•
Electronic forms to gather data and integrate it with business systems.
The emergence of PDF as a standard for electronic information exchange is the
result of concerted effort by many individuals in both the private and public sec-
tors. Without the dedication of Adobe employees, our industry partners, and our
customers, the widespread acceptance of PDF could not have been achieved. We
thank all of you for your continuing support and creative contributions to the
success of PDF.
Chuck Geschke and John Warnock
November 2004