DESKTOP PUBLISHING SOFTWARE

LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Identify the most common desktop publishing software and determine their basic features.

There are several desktop publishing software programs for both Macintosh and PC-based computer systems. You should be aware that although these programs are similar in terms of overall operation, they vary widely in their capabilities and functions.

For instance, less elaborate desktop publishing programs are mainly suited for simple pamphlets and brochures, while more complex versions include advanced features, such as indexing, style sheets and typographic operations you can use to control the spacing of single characters.

NOTE: Reference to the following desktop publishing programs does not constitute endorsement by NETPMSA or the U.S. Navy.

Some of the more common desktop publishing software packages available include the following:

l Aldus PageMaker

l Finesse (PC compatibles only)

l Interleaf Publisher

l Legacy (PC compatibles only)

l QuarkXPress (Macintosh only)

l Ready, Set, Go (Macintosh only)

l Ventura Publisher

Since new desktop publishing software programs (and newer versions of existing programs) are introduced to the marketplace frequently, you should research the features of as many programs as possible. As stated previously, make sure the program is compatible with your hardware. It should be able to convert files from your current word processing

Figure 8-5. - Formats of ship and station newspapers.

program and have a good graphics file and a large selection of type fonts from which to choose.