The latest updates on information selling and running an online infoproduct business

There is always debate about the format you should use for your online information products. Some people suggest you should only use Adobe Acrobat PDF files others suggest you should use proprietary EXE files. So what are the pros and cons of each?

PDF Advantages
1. Solid, reliable system from major company
2. Worldwide acceptance
3. Works on all computers including PCs, Macintoshes and handhelds
4. Digital security system to prevent unauthorized access/copying

PDF Disadvantages
1. File sizes can sometimes be large, slowing download times
2. Your customer needs a 'reader' which they must also download
3. Newer PDF files will not work with older reader software

EXE Advantages
1. Small file sizes can be created
2. Your client does not need any additional software to read your product
3. Security measures can be applied to your file

EXE Disadvantages
1. Only works on PCs - eliminating around 15% of your potential customers
2. Some customers will have security systems preventing EXE downloads
3. Your client cannot control page size of other viewing preferences
4. Some of the ebook EXE creation products are not compatible with newer versions of Windows XP
5. Some EXE ebooks are not compatible with newer versions of Windows XP, unless your customer downloads additional 'fixer' software

There is no doubt in my mind that PDF files are the only form of ebooks you should be producing. Anything else, no matter how fancy or well produced, limits your potential client base. Adobe Acrobat PDF files are accepted internationally and even the tightest company security systems allow them to be downloaded. The result is that you have access to all your potential customers with PDFs but with EXE files you are limiting your audience. Why do that?