For information people need to find, read, and keep current, a web page is usually best for people who use assistive technology.
A PDF can still be useful when people need a document to print, save offline, or keep as an official record.
Why a web page is usually easier
A well-built web page can adapt to a phone, a zoomed browser, a custom colour setting, or a screen reader without asking the reader to manage a separate file.
It's also easier to search, link to, translate, and update. When one sentence changes, you update one page instead of tracking down an old file everywhere it was shared.
When a PDF still makes sense
PDFs keep a fixed layout, which can be useful for a print resource, a signed document, or a report people need to download and keep. Choose that format because people need the file.
A quick way to decide
Before publishing, ask:
- Will people mainly read this online and need to find it through search? Use a web page.
- Will the information change regularly? Use a web page.
- Do people need to enter information or complete a process? Use an accessible web form where possible.
- Is a fixed, downloadable, printable, or archival version part of the purpose? A PDF may be useful.
If you publish both, make the web page the primary version and keep the PDF accessible too.