Phillip Norman wrote: > I saw this question in light different from replies so far. I rely on > FrameMaker itself for 2D drawings. Is this possibly overlooked? I am > unaware of better graphics tools for many purposes. I followed the > thread hoping to see remarks on progress with the FrameMaker tools in > newer versions. v5.5.6 is good enough for what I do as a construction > contractor, I think. But, I try to understand what I might be missing > without upgrades. Among other tasks, I draw objects onto photos, > often from Snagit capture of satellite images, Google Maps, or city > databases. I like having drawings live within my FrameMaker documents > (bids, contracts and more). > > I don't find comparable tools in InDesign or any other Adobe > software. > > Do we have anything to discuss about evolution of the FrameMaker > graphics tool-set?
Hi Phil, FM's tools are fine for simple drawings that require only lines and solid fills, but for *illustrations* where you want gradients, textures, shadows, transparency effects, etc., they simply can't do it. I've been promoting Xara's current offer of their previous version of Xtreme for $19 because I think anyone who needs to do the more sophisticated kind of work will find it a stunning value. I have absolutely no training in visual arts whatsoever and can't even draw a symmetrical stick-man, but I was able to create this splash screen with Xara after working through only a handful of the company's tutorials: http://www.phoenix-geophysics.com/home/nav_logo/nav_logo.php There's no way FM's tools could produce something like that. I'm on FM 7.0, and I just installed the trial of FM 9; the graphics tools are virtually identical to what's pictured in a 5.5.6 For Dummies book I inherited, so there has been no change. Best regards, -- Stuart Rogers Technical Communicator Phoenix Geophysics Limited Toronto, ON, Canada +1 (416) 491-7340 x 325 srogers phoenix-geophysics com Suggested headline for theonion.com: "In Final Trip to Beijing, Bush Calls on Premier to 'Tear Down This Wall'" -- Malcolm Fleschner, Palo Alto, Calif., in The Washington Post
