I hate Microsoft Publisher.
I’ve hated it so long I can barely remember why I started not liking it. I think it comes down to the fact that back before it could export PDFs, there was no way to get your content to another format and have it resemble your original vision. Since then, Microsoft has added the export to PDF functionality, which has made my life (and the lives of those who used to send me Publisher files) easier. At least I can take a PDF and do some manipulation to it. But, what if you don’t have Publisher and can’t convert your files to PDF?
Enter Zamzar
Zamzar offers free online file conversion of various file types, including Microsoft Publisher. I have been using this site for a few years now and it has been very helpful during those times when I have to get a file converted out of Publisher.
Right from their home page, you can upload your file, choose the format you want to output in, and they will email you a download link when it is finished processing. It’s incredibly easy!
How are the results? For the most part, they do what I need, which is usually just getting the basic graphics and text out of the file. But, see for yourself:
On the left, the flyer has been converted from Publisher to Word. On the right, a PDF created from Publisher directly.
As you can see, it’s not a perfect process. Most of the issues stem from missing fonts on my system that the Publisher file uses. But, I can edit the document and I don’t have to type the entire form over!
If you can get a PDF from the original Publisher file, that is your best bet. But, if you can’t for some reason, look into Zamzar for your quick conversion.
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