Replace PDF file in OneDrive while Retaining Active Shared Hyperlink

Question

Hi, it is my understanding that at present, it is not possible to replace a file that has been uploaded to OneDrive and Shared ('Anyone With Link Can View") while retaining the same Shared URL. The suggested workaround from the prior support article I found (https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/msoffice/forum/all/how-to-replace-pdf-file-but-maintain-shared-link/81f61b90-147f-4bc0-b7e2-fb85a0d38e08) suggested editing the PDF in Adobe for 365 (will not work for my use) or sharing a folder destination rather than the specific file (this could possibly work for me, but is still not the functionality I am after).

Here is what I'm attempting to do. I am creating a Site Tour Book to use with clients who are considering multiple site options to place a retail business. I create an interactive, printable PDF that allows the user to quickly navigate the document using hyperlinks. I have now also incorporated QR codes into the document, so that the user can easily access the digital version on their phone/tablet while they have the printed, hard-copy in hand.

I have the QR code on the document's cover. However, in order to generate the QR code, I must first have the shared hyperlink - thus, this requires me to upload a version of the tour book WITHOUT the embedded QR code to OneDrive, share & generate a link, generate a QR code from that shared URL, download my QR code, place the QR code in the document (indesign) and re-export the PDF. Here is where the swap file without changing shared hyperlink comes into play... I need to be able to replace the initial file (the upload used to generate the link/QR code) with the updated PDF (which includes the QR code) with the same shared URL so that the QR link isn't broken AND the Printed File and Digital File are identical.

The way that OneDrive currently operates according to the above referenced support article, what I've described is not possible. Am I correct? If so, Microsoft you need to change this functionality.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to Microsoft Community.

Based on the detailed description, we totally understand your scenario that you need to kind of update the shared PDF and keep the original sharing link/URL. In this situation, we are sorry to convey that your understanding is correct, and the PDF files are not able to replace/update another copy but keep the same URL.

Really sorry for all the inconveniences it may have caused on your side. A suggestion I'd like to share with you is to share a Word document with others but in 'Read-only' permission so that the file won't get edited by others but you will be able to edit it anytime and let people always get the latest version of your tour book.

For the limitation of PDF files, kindly submit your feedback to the related product team and let them provide a better sharing experience with PDF files in OneDrive. How do I give feedback on Microsoft Office? Really sorry that forum engineers here have no resources to the building of features in Office.

Appreciate your kind patience and hope a nice day for you!

Best Regards,

Mia