Summary

• Flash 8 retains the familiar interface of Flash MX 2004, while making room for some additional authoring tools and enhanced features.

• Although Flash is available in two versions, the interface is consistent between Flash Basic 8 and Flash Professional 8. Flash Basic 8 will support all of the authoring tasks that were possible in Flash MX 2004. Flash Professional 8 offers some additional templates, components, and specialized features that support development of rich Internet applications.

• The Start Page and robust Help features get you started quickly, while the options for saving custom Workspace Layouts and custom keyboard shortcut sets make it easy to optimize your workspace for specific production needs.

• The Property inspector and the streamlined panel structure make the interface intuitive and consistent with other programs in the Macromedia Studio 8 family.

• Tabbed panels make it easier to optimize screen space and customize the editing environment to suit your monitor configuration and work style.

• Layer folders and frame-editing options make it easy to organize and navigate your document structure.

• Although Flash is mainly used to produce Web content, it fully supports printed output.

• If you need a quick reminder on any of the fundamental interface elements, this chapter will be your reference.