Description:
Linux users have needs, too. Desktop publishing is vital for many who like to stay away from the more popular operating systems, and Chilliware gives them that power with IceSculptor. This sleek, powerful package fits in with any Linux install and doesn't eat up too many system resources. Installation is comparatively simple, though a little guidance from the publisher would have gone a long way for new users. The interface is as intuitive as any competitor running on any OS, which is essential as the documentation and online help are just adequate. The XML-based files can be manipulated directly using a text editor or using a WYSIWYG window like most other desktop publishing programs; this can be a tremendous boon for those who are more interested in Web publishing, but probably won't appeal to most users. The image editor is cool and easy to use. While not as powerful as Photoshop, Illustrator, and their ilk, it is handy and perfect for resizing and reshaping without loading new software. Documents are scalable to any size, and text is easy to customize with the ArtText feature. For those with high-end printing needs, full color separation, and CMYK, printing is available and actually fairly simple. While IceSculptor is a giant leap forward in bringing Linux up to speed with Windows and Mac OS in terms of popular applications, novice users should beware or at least make sure they have a guardian geek watching over the shoulder. --Rob Lightner
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