Adobe InDesign CS5 Upsell from Pagemaker [Mac] (vf)

Adobe InDesign CS5: A Comprehensive Review

Adobe InDesign CS5 is a professional desktop publishing application developed by Adobe Systems. As a successor to the increasingly outdated PageMaker, InDesign CS5 brings a multitude of features and enhancements aimed at both novice and expert users. This review aims to explore the strengths and weaknesses of Adobe InDesign CS5, making it easier for users considering an upgrade from PageMaker to make an informed decision.

User Interface

The user interface of Adobe InDesign CS5 is designed with usability in mind. It features a clean layout with an intuitive workspace that allows users to easily access tools and panels. The menu structure is logically organized, ensuring that users can find the necessary functions without hassle. Key interface elements include:

• Control Panel: Offers quick access to formatting options for selected objects.
• Pages Panel: Enables easy navigation between pages within a document.
• Tools Panel: Houses all essential tools for design and text manipulation.

Enhanced Typography Features

One of the standout capabilities of Adobe InDesign CS5 is its robust typography tools. This version has introduced advanced typographic controls, making it easier to create visually appealing documents. Key typography features include:

• OpenType Support: Full compatibility with OpenType fonts enables advanced typographic features.
• Text Wrap Options: Allows for more control over how text flows around images and other objects.
• Paragraph and Character Styles: Users can define consistent styles that can be easily applied throughout a project.

Integration with Other Adobe Products

Adobe InDesign CS5 seamlessly integrates with other Adobe Creative Suite applications, such as Photoshop and Illustrator. This interoperability allows users to import and edit graphics directly within InDesign, minimizing the need to switch between applications. Users benefit from:

• Cross-Application Asset Sharing: Easily share assets across different Adobe applications.
• Dynamic Links: Automatically update linked files in real-time whenever changes are made in Photoshop or Illustrator.

Print and Digital Publishing

The versatility of Adobe InDesign CS5 extends beyond traditional print media to digital publishing formats as well. With this version, users can create interactive PDFs and publish content for digital platforms such as eBooks or online magazines. Notable features include:

• Interactive Documents: Capability to add buttons, forms, and multimedia elements to PDF documents.
• Epub Export: Simplified process for exporting layouts as EPUB files for eReaders.

Workflow Efficiency

Adobe InDesign CS5 is equipped with productivity-enhancing features designed to streamline workflow efficiencies. Key functionalities that contribute to faster production speeds include:

• Create Once, Publish Everywhere: Users can maintain a single source file while easily adapting exports for print or digital formats.
• Paster in Place: This option enables users to place copied content without losing its relative position in the layout.
• Enhanced Preflight:** Automatic error-checking capabilities help identify potential issues before printing or exporting documents.