Dreamweaver MX
by Macromedia
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (11 June, 2002)
list price: $399.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Build Web sites and Internet applications with Macromedia Dreamweaver MX. Work within one environment to easily create and manage any professional Web site, whether it's built using HTML, XHTML, XML, Web services, ColdFusion, ASP.NET, ASP, JSP, or PHP. Dreamweaver MX is a complete solution combining the visual layout tools of Dreamweaver, the Web application features of Dreamweaver UltraDev, and the code editing support of HomeSite.

The new integrated workspace shared with Macromedia Flash MX and Fireworks MX includes tabbed document windows, dockable panel groups, customizable toolbars, and integrated file browsing. Prebuilt layouts and code, including site structures, forms, accessible templates, and JavaScript functions for interactivity, allow you to get started fast. A site setup wizard helps configure site information instantly for managing dynamic sites, staged sites, or sites hosted by ISPs.

Write code faster than ever before using features like code hints, tag editors, extensible color coding, tag choosers, snippets, and code validation. Accelerate development with support for XML, including creating, editing, validating XML code, and importing XML schemas. Easily introspect XML Web services. Ensure standards compliance with default creation of XHTML output, easy conversion from standard HTML to XHTML, and increased support for CSS2. ... Read more

Reviews (41)

Excellent in it's Niche
Dreamweaver MX is significantly easier to use than previous versions, and is probably the best general-purpose site manager out there. However, for professional, commercial web application development, Microsoft's Visual Studio 7 (featuring .Net) beats Dreamweaver hands down. There are considerations however- VS7 costs 2-5 times as much as Dreamweaver (depending on the version), and requires much more user knowledge and training.

I found the learning curve for Dreamweaver MX to be insignicant. The first time I used it, I was comfortable with it in a couple of hours, and proficient by the end of a week. If you are an entry-level to mid-level web site developer with limited programming knowledge, the HTML editor and site management tools should suit your needs. If you wish to do larger scale web application development, you may also do so using Dreamweaver's built in support for different technologies. If you want to go high-end, definitely consider Visual Studio 7 instead.

Overall, a solid application, and pretty comprehensive package.

lol, some people...
okay, noob or not this prog owns everyone. it's worth every penny! unlike ANY microsoft products. from php integration to building flash buttons on the fly, this is a tool for any web designer who is serious about doing the right job. macro's for java scripts are build right in. want to list a form input box, and list all the days of the month but u don't wanna type em in. drag and drop a date input box and walla. mx comes with new compatiblity for mysql, the code engine owns me! from the file system to the wysiwyg editor. NOTHING comes remotly close to the power of dreamweaver mx. there is ONLY 1 downfall of mx, and that's the memory hogging. although that is annoying sometimes, it's a small price to pay for the time you do save and the complexity and level of design it offers. php isn't the only script language that is involved in dwmx either. i've heard asp, vbscript, js, java, and many more have been added to the list of powerful tools that are built into dreamweaver. i recommend this prog. to any developer who wants to get there feet wet with the best web tool on the market.

Dreamweaver MX 2004 - good for PHP, bad for people
I am a big fan of Dreamweaver 4 and have been trying MX 2004 because my DW4 broke. All i can say is it's a great for writing PHP scripts and not much else. Once i switch to design view, i am confronted with stupid things like the cut and paste feature messesing with my code.

If you Google the phrase "Dreamweaver 4 compatible editable regions", you'll find a hack useful in helping all who still stick to the old DW4 template syntex. ... Read more

Asin: B000066E8H
Subjects:  1. Computer software (programs)    2. Web Effects    3. Animation animated    4. Objects    5. Web Page Editors (Creator)   

Fireworks MX
by Macromedia
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (11 June, 2002)
list price: $299.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Create, optimize, and export interactive graphics in a single Web-centric environment using Macromedia Fireworks MX. Fireworks offers all the tools to make everything from simple graphic buttons to sophisticated rollover effects and pop-up menus. Support for major file formats and HTML standards and integration with popular HTML editors allow users to comfortably use Fireworks MX in any work environment.

The workspace offers bitmap editing, precise text control, automation, and extensibility, allowing for rapid production and easy updates. Broad support for file formats, new standards like XHTML, and Section 508 compliance ensure that output matches current and future needs.

Share files across graphics applications, including Macromedia Flash, Macromedia FreeHand, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator. Create vector graphics for Flash, export SWF files, and open graphics directly from within Flash. Open, edit, and export Photoshop graphics while retaining layers, masks, and text properties. Fireworks also integrates seamlessly with such editors as Macromedia Dreamweaver and Microsoft FrontPage. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Need clarification
The Fireworks MX listing doesn't list the Macintosh operating system. Is that an oversight?
I'm using Dreamweaver 4 and not sure that this program is compatable with DW 4.

Admit you have a problem!
...Fireworks is the ONLY CHOICE for the web design professional. ...if you want FLEXABLE, EASY TO EDIT, web graphics ...then there truly is no other choice. ... Fireworks is the best web graphics tool I have ever used!"...

They just keep getting better...
One would think that Macromedia would run out of ideas. Their past software is so good (Fireworks 4, Flash 5, etc.) that I thought there was little room for improvement. I was wrong. The new, consistent UI across applications is simply the best I have ever seen, better even than Microsoft in some of its new products such as Visio 2002.

The interface alone is worth the upgrade price because of the efficiencies it brings, but there is much more here. Being more of a vector guy, I don't use most of the raster tools, but there are some great new ones such as smudge, dodge and burn, etc. The polygon slice tool makes short work of sophisticated rollover diagrams.

I would strongly recommend getting on the Macromedia bandwagon. With cross-browser problems still raging (although NS 7.0 goes a long way to help), I believe Flash is simply going to take over the Internet, period. Fireworks MX is the best way to build your Flash graphics.

Get it! ... Read more

Asin: B000066EUH
Subjects:  1. Computer software (programs)    2. Web Effects    3. Animation animated    4. Objects   

Flash MX
by Macromedia
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (29 March, 2002)
list price: $499.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Since Macromedia launched Flash in 1996, it has grown into the de factostandard for development and delivery of high-impact, visually rich, interactiveWeb content. Flash MX promises a similar generational shift to the oneexperienced when Flash 5's enhanced ActionScript introduced an unprecedenteddegree of interactivity to the Web.

The most exciting new features in this version are those aimed at e-contentdevelopers and programmers. Integration with application servers such asColdFusion MX and Microsoft's .NET and Internet protocols like HTML, WebTV, andWAP make it possible to deliver Flash content to a range of platforms--from PCsto PlayStations to mobile phones.

But Flash MX also offers plenty to those who aren't part of a large team ofdesigners and programmers developing corporate sites. Novice users can takeadvantage of a range of prebuilt, customizable components, including scrollbars, buttons, list and combo boxes, and QuickStart templates for presentations,photo albums, ads, and more, making it possible to achieve great resultsquickly.

The Flash MX interface is now consistent with Dreamweaver and Fireworks. Nestedlayer folders and improved cursor feedback for frame adjustment make thetimeline more manageable, and the context-sensitive properties panel andcollapsing, dockable panels reduce screen clutter considerably. Vector drawingtools, one of Flash's weaknesses, have been largely overlooked, but there is anew Free Transform tool, which combines rotate, scale, and skew options. Video,another Flash weak spot, has fared much better with the inclusion of theSorensen Spark video codec. Users can import a variety of formats, includingMPEG, DV, and QuickTime. In addition, users can animate and script AVI and videoclip objects in the same way as bit maps, even using them on a mask layer.

Flash MX is backwards-compatible with version 5 (meaning users can publishversion 5 SWF files, although MX SWF files require the MX player), removing theonly argument for not upgrading. Those not yet convinced of the merits of Flashneed only look around. --Ken McMahon ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Best Web Software EVER
Developers: Get this software.
This is probably far and away the best and biggest advance in web development out there today. The jump from Flash 5 to MX is enormous. Flash MX has broad capabilities. From static movie based websites to Forms and data entry, to full applciations created with backend Java/ASP/JSP integration.

If you have flash 5, you'll never look back when you see this software package. If you're new to Flash all together this is the place to start.

Create web applications using templates and 'pre-written' code allowing you to move through your development in half the time.

I may also add that although the price tag is hefty, the program is more than worth it. The future of the web is in my opinion focused in and around flash. Macromedia just purchased Jrun (some months ago) and that alone shows that they're serious about creating and making real world applications.
Support for the product is great too. Lots of forums for help.

The Best Keeps Getting Better!
I used Flash 5, and loved it! I heard about Flash MX, read several reviews (all positive), and decided to try it out. I don't regret my decision for a second.

Flash MX is a great improvement over Flash 5 in many categories: design, usability, and power. Flash MX has been made much easier for the beginner to use, automating such things as scroll bar creation and button making. It retains incredible power, however, for the more advanced user. The interface has been made to look more like other Macromedia (and coincidentally Adobe) products, and navigation around the program is incredible! The product has the power to animate beyond your wildest dreams.

Complicated animation becomes a breeze with Flash MX. You can cause your objects to morph into other objects, create motion trails, and much more with as few as two frames (Flash creates the rest). This is useful for rapidly creating animations, as well as enabling beginners to create animation.

The learning curve for Flash can be steep, so I recommend you purchase a book for learning this program, but once you have learned a few basics you can easily animate.

The other program, which does essentially the same thing, is Adobe LiveMotion. This program is a bit cheaper, but lacks the power of Flash MX. If you are looking to create webpages, animation, or web applications, Flash MX is the tool of choice. Try it, you will love it!

Important: you can buy it for 100$ acad version
I agree, the price tag is a little big if you are not an expert commercial buisness animator person, but it is a great product. It is not as hard to learn as everybody says, the interface is great. IMPORTANT: IF YOU ARE ANY STUDENT/TEACHER/MEMBER OF A ELM., MIDDLE SCHOOL, HIGH SCHOOL, OR COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY, YOU CAN BUY THIS PRODUCT FOR ONLY 100$. This is a lot less, 300$. Good Luck. ... Read more

Asin: B000063V0V
Subjects:  1. Computer software (programs)    2. Web Effects    3. Animation animated   

Adobe Photoshop 7.0 [Replaced by Photoshop CS]
by Adobe
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (20 April, 2002)
list price: $609.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Mixed-media professionals such as photographers, Web designers, andgraphic designers will not be disappointed in Adobe's latest incarnation ofPhotoshop. In this release, Adobe aims hard at addressing the issues of filemanagement, easy photo retouching, and smarter output for the Web. While Adobemanages to successfully address these issues, it also remains true to its photoediting roots. New and improved features and tools such as a painting option andan enhanced brush palette allow Photoshop to build on its reputation as theleading tool for image manipulators. New-school designers of wirelessapplications will smile when they discover that Photoshop 7.0 offers support forWBMP-formatted graphics.

Photoshop 7.0's new file management system comes in the form of a WindowsExplorer-like file browser that allows users to easily sort and locate theirimages within various projects. Users can now organize projects by name, date,resolution, and a number of additional parameters.

The enhanced brush palette allows users to create custom brushes and save themas presets that can be accessed from the Tools options bar. Users can easilyvary different aspects of the brush by changing the hue, opacity, or flow of thebrushes for pastels, oils, and charcoal. Photoshop 7.0 also introduces a newHealing Brush and Patch Tool. With these tools, users can easily "heal" theirimages by removing scratches, blemishes, and other imperfections whilepreserving shading, lighting, and texture attributes.

Adobe has taken great strides in revamping Photoshop 7.0 to be more Web-readythan ever before. With the help of its companion software Image Ready, users cannow easily create rollovers and complex navigation bars by using the newRollovers palette. Additional Web-ready features include enhanced Web exportfunctions that allow designers to preview images designed for PDAs and mobilephones in the WBMP format. Users can easily create a slide show of their imagesand post online using the new Web Gallery. People concerned about posting theirimages online can secure their images with the new password protection featurebefore sharing them.

Adobe has finally introduced a long overdue spell checker with wickedmultilingual spell-checking capabilities. A new search and replace featureallows users to search and replace across different layers in the same document.

While Photoshop 7.0 introduces an impressive array of features that allowphotographers, Web designers, and graphic designers to work more effectivelywith Web and wireless devices, it also remains the leading tool for anyoneserious about digital imaging. No other software package provides users with theability to create such high-quality images. --Rich Ting ... Read more

Reviews (42)

a wonderful creative software
Adobe Photoshop 7 is the most creative software i have ever seen. It is soooooo easy to use ... and u will have fun working with it ... I have desiged a hole web template using the photoshop and the Imageready software that comes with it .... after finshing the design on the photoshop i switched to the imageready to animate the buttons i used in my website (using the rollovers) ... after that i exported the file to html format.
I also use the photoshop 7 to make wallpapers by mixing several photos, adding some filters and effects on them, some text and my signiture ..... i really have fun working on the photoshop especially the last version (7) i mean ... because of it's great file browser and it's new brush designs , not just that but much more ... in this version u can adjust the size of the brush that u make (that thing wasn't posible in the older versions).

IT IS REALLY AMAZING

Steep learning curve, but it's simply the best.
The only remotely negative thing I can say about Photoshop 7 is, that if you're totally new to Photoshop, completely learning to use all of its myriad features effectively will be a very daunting task (to say the least). But, that could also be construed as a good thing about Photoshop. It's loaded with a plethora of very useful, very advanced features that other competitive products can't even touch.

However, once you get a basic understanding of Photoshop's layers and basic tools, you can immediately get to work creatively modifying and enhancing your digital photos and doing graphic design. If you ARE new to Photoshop, I do recommend purchasing 3rd party training materials to gain an understanding of the features Photoshop has to offer.

Chances are, if you're considering forking out the considerable cost for this product, than you probably have at least intermediate experience with Photoshop already. The new features of Photoshop 7 are extremely useful. There are new tools for photo enhancements (such as the unbelievable healing brush) as well as illustrating tools that finally turn Photoshop (in my opinion) to a one-stop graphic design studio.

This comes with a fantastic training CD that takes you through the new features. It covers the new customizable paint brushes (which will blow your mind), the (soon-to-be my favorite tool) healing brush, the new file browser and all sorts of other things. This CD was so good, in fact, that I'm considering buying the whole training series for Photoshop.

There is a reason Adobe Photoshop is the omnipresent software installed on every serious graphic designer's computer. It's simply the best, and everything else is a cheap knockoff. True, some cheaper packages do a reasonable job of imitating some of Photoshop's features-but none of them do as good of a job. Photoshop 7 just brings even more revolutionary, well-implemented features to the table, and puts more distance between itself and the wannabes. The bottom line is that if you're looking for the best photo editing software coupled with incredible graphic design tools, you've found it.

The best Picture editor
This program can do so much...

weather it is making the color look nicer in pictures, Adjusting the light, adding things, or even making scenery textures for computer games! It is also great for making web pages... just draw out what you want your web page to look like, and seperate the links and Voila! I highly recomend Photographers (like me), Game editors (like me), web designers (like me), or other jobs that you are tired of using MS paint for or that ms paint cant do. What ever your need Adobe Photo Shop is a great program. ... Read more

Asin: B000063EMG
Subjects:  1. Computer software (programs)    2. Graphics    3. Multimedia    4. Edit (Editing)   

Adobe Illustrator 10.0
by Adobe
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (08 November, 2001)
list price: $424.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

While Adobe Illustrator has traditionally been reserved for the printand prepress marketplace, recent versions have targeted a broader audience,including a growing contingent of new-school Web designers. With the latestincarnation of Illustrator, Adobe aims to please both print and prepressdesigners, as well as cutting-edge Web designer communities. If you're lookingfor a greater Web focus from your vector graphics program, look no further thanIllustrator 10.

For those concerned about Illustrator becoming too Web focused, don't fret. Allof Illustrator's previously existing drawing and text tools remain intact.Version 10 also introduces improved tools for drawing lines, arcs, and grids.These new drawing tools will maximize your productivity and provide an easy wayto create the shapes you want.

In addition to the new drawing tools, Adobe has jumped on the graphics symbolbandwagon by allowing users to save any text object or graphic object as asymbol. Once objects are saved in the Symbol palette, they can be reusedinfinitely, thus providing easier management of files and decreased file size.Users will fall in love with the simple drag-and-drop usability of the symbols,while the newly added Symbol Sprayer lets you easily add multiple instances of asymbol directly into the document.

Adobe has also undertaken the task of minimizing the monotony of tedious andrepetitive design tasks. By taking advantage of Illustrator-supported scriptinglanguages, users can easily automate repetitive tasks by writing scriptsdirectly in Illustrator. Any of the three popular scripting languages--VisualBasic Script, JavaScript, or AppleScript--can be used. When creating a design,users can assign a text object or graphic object to a variable. These variablescan then pull information from any ODBC-compliant database. With this type ofpower, users can easily create templates for documents such as Web pages orproduct catalogs.

In this latest version of Illustrator 10, Adobe has managed to enhance itsexisting drawing tools with powerful productivity aids. By focusing on importantworkflow, productivity, and database-connectivity features, Adobe has given theuser more time to explore new creative possibilities. --Rich Ting ... Read more

Reviews (16)

For Artists Only Plus Buggy
If you are thinking of using this program without having any art ability, I have one word for you: DON'T. Unlike Photoshop, which can be used by people with a variety of image needs, with Illustrator you better already be an artist. I am an artist and this program is taking everything I've got. I find it extremely difficult. This is not to say that it is more or less difficult than any other drawing based art program, just that it is hard. I've always been a better painter than a drawer so that could well be bedeviling me in learning it too. What lowers the grade to a 4 though is that Illustrator 10 seems to have a lot of bugs when you use it on Windows XP, which is what I'm using. I notice another reviewer here catalogs all the problems it presents on a Mac so I caution you that installing it on Windows may not solve those problems. Perhaps Adobe just rushed it a bit prematurely into production. If you go to the Adobe website and then to the Illustrator User Forums, you can see all the computer bugs that users are running into with Illustrator 10. That can give you a better idea than I ever could about some of the problems you will need to work around after installation... The reason I went with this program is that it is the one that is the industry standard. It is also the drawing program taught in most colleges' commercial art departments. Apparently some advanced drawers also use a program called Freehand so you might want to read about that one as well before taking the plunge with Illustrator 10.

A step backward in the Illustrator franchise.
Before I begin, let me say this: Illustrator as a whole is a good product. Unfortunately, Version 10 is not. In fact, I am surprised it ever made it passed Beta testing. I am constantly plagued with "This program has performed an illegal operation and will be shut down." Adobe's programmers have also been playing with the grouping commands, and have failed address a significant (and obvious) flaw when attempting to align groups.

Yes, the ability to create symbols is incredibly helpful. And while the new morphing utilities are also quite interesting, the new features in Illustrator 10 have not outweighed its shortcomings. Perhaps when Adobe comes out with a patch for this block of wood I'll come back, but until then I'll continue using verion 9.

Excellent Software but....with Xp. Yuk!!
I have been a Graphic Designer for 6 years and I have been using Illustrator the whole time. The program has been upgraded with some good new features, although Corel (which is evil) has Illustrator beat with the Envelope feature. Illustrator is EXTREMELY glitchy with XP. I find that it works well with 2000 and even 98. This is the program to get if you are in the field of Graphic Art, I have been teaching it for 3 years as well and new users really enjoy this Program. Once you get the basics down you can go many places with Illustrator. ... Read more

Asin: B00005QVPY
Subjects:  1. Computer software (programs)    2. Graphics    3. Multimedia    4. Illustration (Illustrated)   

Microsoft Visual Studio .NET Professional
by Microsoft
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (13 February, 2002)
list price: $1,079.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Visual Studio .NET is a superb, next-generation development tool. At its heart is the .NET Framework, a runtime engine and class library that enables rapid application building for both Windows and Web applications. The runtime engine handles housekeeping tasks, like memory management, while also providing fine-grained security and version awareness. The class library reduces the code needed to build rich applications. Visual Studio .NET also provides a slick visual environment, with features like tabbed and docking windows, dynamic online help, and automatic code completion and hints.

The common runtime is language-neutral so, for example, Visual Basic programmers can use components written in C# and vice versa. Other languages, such as COBOL and FORTRAN, can plug into Visual Studio, and Microsoft provides a version of the Java language called J#.

Overall, Visual Studio .NET is a radical break from the past for Microsoft. C# is an entirely new language, aimed at C and C++ programmers looking for something safer and more productive. Visual Basic .NET is a new twist on the old Microsoft favorite, losing compatibility with earlier versions, but gaining full object orientation as well as access to all the .NET libraries. These two languages, along with J#, have full support for the visual design tools in Visual Studio .NET. Also included is JScript .NET, Microsoft's version of JavaScript, although this comes without a form designer. Visual C++ is similar to earlier versions and is the only compiler included that can build old-style Windows executables. With a compiler switch, it can also target .NET, making it particularly flexible.

Visual Studio .NET has two distinct form designers. Windows Forms are for traditional Windows applications, but managed by the common runtime. Web Forms are ASP.NET pages, which means they run on Web servers and work over the Internet. Microsoft has made designing and coding Windows Forms and Web Forms as similar as possible so that both types of applications can share components and much of the complexity of coding Web applications is kept hidden. Another key feature is Web services, which lets developers create an XML interface for an application so that it can be called across the Web or from any platform or language. XML support generally is strong, with a range of classes for parsing and transforming XML data. There is also a visual designer for XML Schema.

There are a few points against Visual Studio .NET. One is that, like earlier versions, it only creates applications that run on Windows. Web applications are a partial exception, in that they support cross-platform clients, but deployment requires a Windows Web server. Another factor is that, with its multiple compilers and mountains of documentation, Visual Studio .NET eats up gigabytes of disk space, and the IDE tends to be slow with less than around 384 MB RAM. Serious developers will take this in stride, but casual users could have difficulty. Fortunately, the applications created have more modest system requirements, although Windows 95 is not supported. Finally, developers coming from earlier editions face a lot of learning due to radical changes in both Visual Basic and ASP.

Despite these minor issues and a steep learning curve, Visual Studio .NET is an extremely versatile, sophisticated, and capable development tool. --Tim Anderson, Amazon.co.uk ... Read more

Reviews (13)

The Great Leap Forward
My apologies to Chairman Mao, but I've been using the beta version of VS.Net for several weeks now, and its advances are impressive. For VB programmers, there is a new, fully object-oriented version of the language that stands on an equal footing with C. For C++ programmers, there is C#, which combines the power of C with the RAD features of VB. It really is possible to knock out a Windows application in a morning! Finally, for Java programmers who are a bit frustrated with the quirks of that language, C# is a Java clone that is easy to learn, that has most of the power that Java left out, and that has a really spectacular IDE. I haven't raved about anything since VB3, but I'm raving about this.

Finally... a real IDE for Web developers!
Been using VS.NET since beta 2, and the final version is everything I've ever wanted. I was a former ASP script kiddie, but because of the outstanding object-oriented VB.NET, and even better C#, I can now code Web apps like a "real" developer. I can see Windows programmers asking, "Wait, you mean it wasn't always done that way?"

There are some minor annoyances, like the fact that VS.NET won't use Intellisense when you write code right on an ASP.NET page (come on MS, a code-behind file isn't necessary for three lines of code). It's also not terribly idiot-proof setting up remote debugging.

The greatest thing to me is that SQL Server's Enterprise manager is, in a matter of speaking, integrated into the environment, so you're not alt-tabing to see what the heck your DB looks like.

If you hate the state of Web development, you need this.

.NET - .GET
This studio is leagues beyond the last. Microsoft is easing the burden of developers by simplifying distributed application development using .NET. Sure, for instance, you can go in and manually write the low level COM interface connectors if you prefer to have the "stick shift" control and specific performance attributes etc., or you can rely on the built in functionality of .NET and speed the development process.

It seems that with this platform there is a bit of a learning curve even for the most experienced developers because of the great differences. But the online help is dynamic and useful when you get stuck on something.

Visual Basic is not Visual Basic now. They seemed to have completely renovated the way VB works.

The Common language Runtime (CLR) makes it possible to create solutions by interweaving any of the languages included with the studio. I believe there is a way to import 3rd party or future MS designed languages as well. So if one language is better at a specific task, then you can switch to it.

The integrated development environment (IDE) is meant to maximize developer productivity. In using it, I haven't experienced the contrary. I must mention that I do like the flexibility of working on web applications in .NET. You can use a grid layout like a form builder, or the flow layout like a web page editor.

I noticed a couple of funny things so far, but not worth mentioning. It takes some getting used to, but this is certainly worth it. ... Read more

Asin: B00005RV4Z
Subjects:  1. Computer software (programs)    2. Programming Languages    3. Java    4. Visual Basic (visualbasic)    5. VBA (VB)    6. Programming    7. Development Utilities   

Dynamic HTML: The Definitive Reference
by O'Reilly
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 July, 1998)
list price: $49.95
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Danny Goodman felt that he couldn't trust any of the documentation on Dynamic HTML (DHTML) that he read (too many contradictions), so he wrote this book as a reference for working with his own clients. After testing tags and techniques on multiple releases of the main browsers, Goodman came up with very practical information--some of which you may not find in any other resource.

Goodman assumes a solid foundation, if not expertise, in basic HTML and an understanding of what DHTML is all about. From those assumptions, he presents a meaty, information-dense volume. The first of the book's four sections discusses industry standards and how to apply the basic principles of DHTML. He emphasizes the differences in Web browsers and discusses how to build pages so that they work well in both Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer. The second section is an extensive, quick reference of all the tags, objects, and properties of HTML, cascading style sheets, Document Object Model, and core JavaScript. A particularly handy cross-reference guide to this information follows, helping you locate it in alternate ways. The final section contains appendices, with useful tables of values and commands. --Elizabeth Lewis ... Read more

Reviews (138)

excellent reference of HTML, CSS, Javascript and DOM
Although things change quickly on the Internet, this book is still the best reference and resource on web site building that I have come across. The book contains a complete reference divided in sections on HTML, the Document Object (DOM), Style Sheet Attributes and the JavaScript Language. All attribute entries include a description and example. The versions of Internet Explorer and Netscape that support it are mentioned with it. The extensive DOM reference also includes the properties and methods.

The appendixes describe HTML character entities, color names and RGB values, keyboard event character values and specific Internet Explorer commands.

The book starts with a section describing all these features of Dynamic HTML in general and how to apply them. For example, absolute versus relative positioning is explained in detail, followed by an explanation of positioning attributes.

The book is my inseparable companion when I'm working on my web site.

Every Web Author Should Have One!
As a "reference" book (that is, not a tutorial or manual or *dummies* book) is meant to be used by people already familiar with what they are doing and need a comprehensive source to look something up, this book is the perfect model of a great reference work and belongs on every web deleloper's desk. It offers detailed info on HTML elements, DOM, CSS, and JavaScript. As this is a DHTML reference, the Javascript section is sorely lacking, though. A great feature is that for each element, property and attribute, it tells you which versions of Netscape and IE supports that element. Descriptions and examples are also provided for each entry. It also briefly explains how to use DHTML and cross-platform problems. Another consideration is that since this is such a large reference, it takes a little time to get used to its organization and how to look things up. But this is the one web book I keep referring back to all the time.

Worth every cent
I bought the first edition of this book a few years ago, and found it the best reference book I every had. In the first chapters, Danny Goodman has an excellent way of explaining the differences between browser versions and the history/reasoning behind them. These chapters in the second revision of the book are a must-read for those who want to clear up their confusion about the "old" Netscape/IE differences and the new standards that Netscape 6+/IE/w3c are finally starting to comply with.

For someone into editing HTML/css/JavaScript, I haven't come across a better reference book yet. It is also one of the few books that gives practical hints on creating pages that work on all browsers AND platforms. I admire Danny Goodman for taking on the enormous challenge that writing this book imposed. ... Read more

Isbn: 1565924940
Subjects:  1. Computer Bks - Languages / Programming    2. Computer Books: Web Programming    3. Computer Networks    4. Computer Programming Languages    5. Computers    6. DHTML (Document markup language)    7. Internet - World Wide Web    8. Networking - General    9. Programming Languages - HTML    10. Data in computer systems    11. HTML    12. World Wide Web (WWW)    13. JavaScript (Computer program l   

Cascading Style Sheets: The Definitive Guide
by O'Reilly
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (15 May, 2000)
list price: $34.95
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Cascading Style Sheets can put a great deal of control and flexibility into the hands of a Web designer--in theory.In reality, however, varying browser support for CSS1 and lack of CSS2 implementation makes CSS a very tricky topic.Cascading Style Sheets: The Definitive Guide is a comprehensive text that shows how to take advantage of the benefits of CSS while keeping compatibility issues in mind.

The book is very upfront about the spotty early browser support for CSS1 and the sluggish adoption of CSS2. However, enthusiasm for the technology spills out of the pages, making a strong case for even the most skeptical reader to give CSS a whirl and count on its future. The text covers CSS1 in impressive depth--not only the syntactical conventions but also more general concepts such as specificity and inheritance.Frequent warnings and tips alert the reader to browser-compatibility pitfalls.

Entire chapters are devoted to topics like units and values, visual formatting and positioning, and the usual text, fonts, and colors.This attention to both detail and architecture helps readers build a well-rounded knowledge of CSS and equips readers for a future of real-world debugging.Cascading Style Sheets honestly explains the reasons for avoiding an in-depth discussion of the still immature CSS2, but covers the general changes over CSS1 in a brief chapter near the end of the book.

When successfully implemented, Cascading Style Sheets result in much more elegant HTML that separates form from function.This fine guide delivers on its promise as an indispensable tool for CSS coders.--Stephen W. Plain

Topics covered:

• HTML with CSS
• Selectors and structure
• Units
• Text manipulation
• Colors and backgrounds
• Boxes and borders
• Visual formatting principles
• Positioning
• CSS2 preview
• CSS case studies

... Read more

Reviews (58)

For those who learn by example - not a quick reference!
There are times when a comprehensive list of properities simply isn't enough. At times like these, when my problem is CSS related, I reach for this book. This is one of those books you will need to get a more in-depth knowledge of CSS. It goes through the very basics of style sheets, to make sure that you not only know how to use them, but also that you know how they work!

This is a great book for those that learn by example, as there are plenty to go around. There is something about this book that makes it's approach to learning by example that little bit different, as it provides the basis to allow you to test out what you've learnt from early on. Another nice feature is the case study that converts a HTML only page into one that uses CSS.

For those of you who are struggling to get a browser to behave with a particular style sheet, then this book has some real gems to help make your pages more consistent amongst browsers. The problem is finding them! They are scattered throughout the book and I sometimes get the feeling they were added merely as necessary afterthoughts. Perhaps the next edition would benefit from a section devoted to gathering these tips into a chapter devoted to browser inconsistencies... that is, if they are still a problem at the time the next edition is printed.

As with all reference books, they tend to age. Cascading Style Sheets covers very little of the new CSS2 selectors and properties, which I'm sure will be covered in much better detail in subsquent versions of the book. While it may not be as complete as it could be, it is the book I recommend to those wanting to learn more about the basics of CSS.

Complete
This is the only book you need on Cascading Style Sheets. It is absolutely complete, and will allow you to get started right away designing simple style sheets. On the other hand, if you are willing to take the time to browse other designer's code while simultaneously using this book, you will find yourself designing complex style sheets right away!

Before picking up this book, I was familiar with style sheets in the most basic sense. Within a week, I was designing moderately complex stylesheets more or less on my own, only occasionally using the book for reference. I can now easily write CSS on my own and no longer "need" the book, but I do still often find myself referring to it while using some of the trickier positioning elements. It has been an invaluable reference.

I give this book five stars and, based on my description above, I think it is clear that recommend it to anyone who wants to use CSS; HOWEVER, there is one caveat - this book does not cover the CSS2 specification in depth. When it was written, CSS2 was on the horizon, but not yet a reality. The book therefore has a chapter that talks theoretically about CSS2, but it cannot give hard and fast rules or make definitive statements about the specification. Now that CSS2 is a reality, however, the book is slightly dated. If you are interested in making an investment in this book, you may wish to visit the O'Reilly Web site and see if a new edition is soon forthcoming. If so, I would recommend waiting for the 2nd. Ed.

This is the old edition. It was a 5-star book 4 years ago.
Eric Meyer is the master. This edition is way out of date. Instead, buy Cascading Style Sheets: The Definitive Guide, 2nd Edition. It explains everything about CSS2 in detail. For examples and workflow, buy Eric Meyer on CSS and More Eric Meyer on CSS. Just don't buy this outdated version of The Definitive Guide. ... Read more

Isbn: 1565926226
Subjects:  1. Cascading style sheets    2. Computer Bks - Languages / Programming    3. Computer Books: General    4. Computer Networks    5. Computer Programming Languages    6. Computer graphics    7. Computers    8. Design    9. HTML (Document markup language    10. HTML (Document markup language)    11. Internet - Web Site Design    12. Networking - General    13. Programming Languages - HTML    14. Web sites    15. COM060060    16. Computers / Programming Languages / HTML, SGML, VRML, XML    17. Data in computer systems    18. Publishing on the Internet    19. World Wide Web (WWW)