Why do we convert structured data to PDFs?

Re:Why do we convert structured data to PDFs? by dredmorbius on Wednesday January 18, 2023 @06:23PM (#34434605)

Data exchange formats are a detail which can, often is, and quite frankly should be specified in partnership and/or vendor contracts.

PDF-based interchange of structured data as part of an ongoing relationship ... seems to reflect a poor business relationships management.

(And yes, there are all manner of organisations which fail to follow good practices whether on grounds of competence or malice, but generally, this is how I'd suggest addressing this issue. I'd also strongly suggest checking to see if such a data exchange option is already available.)

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Why do we convert structured data to PDFs? by n0rlant1s on Thursday January 19, 2023 @08:47PM (#34448208)

Hm -- don't think this is the case for legacy industries. It's just what they're used to and have been doing for years

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Why do we convert structured data to PDFs? by dredmorbius on Friday January 20, 2023 @12:51PM (#34456874)

I'd suggest otherwise.

If only on the basis that PDF itself is a relatively recent data format.

"Legacy industry" to me would be IBM mainframe data formats and the like.

Which ... are their own flavour of fun.

[ Parent | on HN ]