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It can be difficult to determine the best method for converting Word files into web pages. Here are some general principles that may help you make the decision.
Is it absolutely critical that the page layout and formatting must be maintained?
If so, converting to a downloadable pdf file is probably the only reliable option.
Am I doing one time conversion of a complex document that is unlikely to change?
If this is the case it may be best to use Word's Save as Web Page feature. You may either upload the resulting file as a "gem" or incorporate the html into a Manila story.
Uploading as a gem works best if:
- the document contains no graphics
- it is not important for visitors to be able to navigate the rest of your site from the document
- the document is primarily a print document and the web version is secondary.
Incorporating the html into a Manila story is best if:
- the document is complex and/or includes graphics. (You will need to manually add the graphics to your site as "pictures" and incorporate them into the document via shortcuts.)
- you want to site navigation links to appear on the web page.
- your goal is to move the primary version of the document to the web.
If you choose the second option you will need to work directly with the html that Word creates so that you can copy the html-formatted text into your Manila page.
Will I want to update and edit the converted web page?
If so, your best long-term option is almost certainly to take the time to copy the Word document text into a new Manila page and then edit it. Although the initial process is somewhat time-consuming, the result is a web page that is easy to update and edit.
What about keeping print and web documents synchronized?
The best answer to this question requires a bit of a mental shift. Many people assume that they must keep separate web and print versions of their documents, and struggle to keep them synchronized.
However, there is another path.
Many faculty members find that they can make the web versions of their documents the primary version - or even the only versions. When documents are readily available on the web, most people don't need to print them out. Anytime one needs to consult a document, the web provides instant access to the most current version. And don't forget that paper-dependent users can print your web pages right from the browser.
So consider giving up using Word to create your documents and begin to move to the web as a distribution and writing tool. Manila's ability to let you edit your pages directing in the browser makes this a realistic option.
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