2.13 Reduce the impact of downloadable and physical documents

https://w3c.github.io/sustainableweb-wsg/#reduce-the-impact-of-downloadable-and-physical-documents

Reduce paper use through digital-first workflows, optimize and reuse accessible downloadable documents, and provide clear, user-controlled document previews and formats.

Success Criterion: Printed documents

Design workflows to reduce the need for paper documents. When paper use is necessary, reduce paper use through efficient print layouts and minimal page counts. Include print style sheets and test them with real content. Encourage the use of digital formats instead of paper storage and archiving.

Success Criterion: Optimized documents

Optimize and compress downloadable documents, provide them in accessible formats that suit different user needs, and choose open, widely supported formats (such as HTML) over proprietary file formats.

Success Criterion: Optimized delivery

Avoid duplicating work. When a document is reused, generate and store it once on the server so it can be reused efficiently, preferably on a cookie-free domain.

Success Criterion: Labels and choice

Show users the document name, format, size, and a short summary before download. Let users choose the most suitable format and language. Avoid embedding documents directly in pages; instead provide download or browser-view links.