The process of incorporating typefaces directly into a document ensures that the intended visual appearance of the text remains consistent across different computers, regardless of whether those systems have the required fonts installed locally. Without this feature, a document opened on a computer lacking the original fonts will substitute them with default fonts, potentially altering the layout and aesthetic of the document. The function guarantees that recipients see the document as its creator intended.
The practice is significant for preserving design integrity and maintaining brand consistency. Previously, distribution of documents relied on recipients having the necessary fonts available. Now, this dependency is mitigated. This capability is particularly beneficial for sharing documents with intricate typography, corporate branding guidelines, or specialized character sets. Historically, the option addressed concerns of font licensing and prevented unauthorized font usage, though modern licensing agreements often still dictate the permissible use of embedded fonts.