By: R. J.
Artistic Challenge
I know a graphic artist who is utterly frustrated with the complexity of building websites. Working with complicated web development software or writing HTML is the death knell for artistically inclined people.
Extensoft, Inc, author of Artisteer, solved the challenge with a bold proclamation: “You don't need to learn Photoshop, CSS, HTML and other Web technologies to create great looking designs, including images and buttons.”
A New Way
Artisteer will suggest all facets of website design, which you can tweak to your heart's content. Understanding the language of graphic art and web design is helpful, but Artisteer is intuitive enough that creating attractive websites is amazingly simple. The user interface provides a deep level of control and coherent work flow management, allowing you to manipulate and preview any design element before publishing.
The following screenshots present two of Artisteer's eleven design categories—“Ideas” and “Colors & Fonts”.
[ Click an image to expand. ]
Compatibility
Artisteer will export to validated XHTML 1.0 Transitional, content management software Word Press, Joomla, Drupal, and developer applications ASP.NET and CodeCharge studio. There are two editions: Home & Academic, and Standard. Check the online comparison chart, decide which version is best for you, and download the software for a free trial.
Page Layout and Content
Page layout is flexible, but Artisteer is not intended to work with your website's content; only to the extent that you control page layout, fonts, styles, and typography. Moreover, you are unable to add or subtract a menu item or edit its content. If you use content management software (CMS), this should not be an issue. If you export work to a HTML template, however, be prepared to edit the menu's HTML by hand. Future product releases plan to support content editing and full website creation with multiple pages.
Summary
Artisteer clearly provides non-designers a suite of tools to forge a credible web presence. Keep in mind that you may need professional help once a design is ready to publish, but dependence will lessen as the product matures. In the meantime, have a lot of fun and possibly save some money.
About the author: R. J. leads the web design underground, searching for information and tools that you can use. For free Artisteer templates and tips see myArtisteer.com.
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