Linking pro's and con's - 30 Oct 2007

A linked object (Paste Link) has 'pros' and 'cons:'

• The actual data is stored in only one place.
• Changes to the source file will be updated in the target file, assuming that you have access to the source file.
• Objects can be edited using the source application.
• Linked objects are very efficient from a file-size perspective, as all that is saved in the presentation is a picture and metadata pointing to the source file.
• There is no significant security concern, as the target contains only a picture of the object, not the source file itself. The source file, and the ability to update the linked object, will only be available to those users who would normally be able to open it. The user requires permission to the source, and must be able to access the source, for the destination document to be able to successfully update the object. If the object cannot be updated, depending on the application, the user will typically see a picture representing the object the last time it was updated.

• You cannot make changes to only the copy on the slide without also changing the source file.
• Destination must be able to locate the source in order to update the link or edit the linked object.
• Source cannot be moved, renamed, or deleted without having to modify the link.
• Requires more RAM for processing, as the source and destination applications will be opened, automatically, by the destination document. This is not a practical concern for most computers today.
• Linked objects produce several messages, which can be a nuisance. You may be asked to update linked files, or to locate files that PowerPoint believes are missing. PowerPoint may believe a file is missing if you do not currently have access to it.