On the day I’m writing this, Adobe has just let the world in on what to expect with next version of the Creative Suite due toward the end of April here in the U.S.
Without a doubt, I’m upgrading. (I’m kind of a geek that way.) But I always hear this question from beginning designers: Do I need to upgrade? In other words, they’d love to get the latest and greatest, but it’s not cheap either.
I’ll cut right to the chase…you won’t stop getting jobs if you are using older versions of InDesign, Photoshop or Illustrator. So don’t feel you have to get CS3 in order to keep up with everyone else.
Having said that, if you depend on these programs, I’ve seen enough to know that each one has improvements that make life a little easier and will probably make you more efficient.
For example, InDesign has a new “multiple place” feature. In CS2, you can only place one thing at a time in a document. That’s not fun when you have a dozen or so pictures you want to put in a document. It’s just so repetitive to have to go through the process of opening and placing each file one at a time.
With the ability to place multiple items in one whack (you do have to click to place each one), you save yourself time.
That’s what I mean…nothing really earth-shattering, but with so many little improvements, your life is going to be a bit easier.
Also, for you Intel Mac folks, this version of CS3 was created to take advantage of the Intel processor. You should find it runs much smoother than CS2 does on an Intel Mac.
For you Vista folks, I’m sure everything will be fine (in fact, Adobe says it will be fine), but do some research before you buy to make sure CS3 and Vista play nicely together. Being a former software tester at Microsoft, I’ve seen it all when it comes to a brand new operating system working with brand new software.
The web design tool, GoLive, is no longer a part of the Suite, replaced by Dreamweaver. (Raise your hand if you didn’t see that coming.)
And in certain Suite configurations, Flash is now included. (There are multiple configurations for you to choose from. I’m going with CS3 Design Premium.)
I continue to stand by something I’ve said when people just starting out in design ask what software they should buy: If you buy an Adobe CS product, you basically get a complete design studio in one box. (Of course, it’s up to you to learn how to use it.) It can be pricey, but with one purchase, you’re on your way.
And, obviously, you can buy any of the software titles individually…so if you just care about InDesign, you can buy it alone.
But, again, if you’re a current Adobe software user and finances don’t allow you to upgrade, you’re going to be ok unless you run into a client who demands you use something you don’t have and I haven’t had that happen too often.
A lot of people have done great work today to provide video previews of new software in CS3. I’m going to point you to those if you want to learn more.
First, for an overview, head over to the Adobe website.
Adobe Creative Suite Podcast – This is primarily a slide show overview the whole Suite, but also includes some video demos. (Watch the 3D stuff in Photoshop and Live Color in Illustrator. Waaaay cooool!)
InDesign Secrets Podcast – New features in InDesign (audio)
The InDesigner – New features in InDesign (video)
Photoshop CS3 Learning Center – Lots of videos showing off the new Photoshop
Real World Illustrator Podcast – New features in Illustrator
Total Training Videos – Despite being pricey, hands-down the best professional video training you can buy.