Link to data when:

• Data or graphics are likely to change.
  
  
• Your application must include the latest version of that data available.
  
  
• The source files are available for updating on your computer or across a network.
  
  
• The source files must be shared with other applications.
  
  

Embed data or graphics when:

• You do not need the most current versions in your application.
  
  
• You do not need to include the data in more than one application.
  
  
• The source files would not be available for updating if they were linked.
  
  
• You want to include a very large file such as a video or sound file.
  
  
• You want to include data that is maintained separately by its source application.